Khawaja claims entire Australian team knew of 2018 ball-tampering scandal

Former Australian cricketer Usman Khawaja has revealed that the entire Australian team was aware of the ball-tampering incident during the 2018 Test in Cape Town, known as the "Sandpapergate" scandal. He also stated that the tactic had been used in the preceding Test at Port Elizabeth. This contradicts previous statements from captain Steve Smith, vice-captain David Warner, and Cameron Bancroft, who were sent home in disgrace after an investigation.

Khawaja, who retired this year after 88 Tests, discussed the scandal with The Sydney Morning Herald, stating that everyone was involved. He mentioned that his autobiography, due for release next week, includes a chapter on the matter. Khawaja's claims differ from those of bowlers Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, and Nathan Lyon, who denied knowing anything about the scandal in 2021.

According to Khawaja, discussions on roughening the ball occurred during the second Test in Port Elizabeth, now Gqeberha. He alleges that Smith distanced himself from the idea upon realising its implications. Bancroft then reportedly volunteered to use sandpaper during South Africa's first innings in Gqeberha, leading to noticeable ball movement.

Khawaja urged the team in the dressing room post-Cape Town to take collective responsibility rather than blame Warner, Smith, and Bancroft. He expressed disappointment that the truth had not emerged sooner, believing others would have spoken up by now. Smith received a one-year ban and was removed as captain, while Warner was suspended for 12 months, losing all leadership roles. Bancroft faced a nine-month ban.

Head coach Darren Lehmann was cleared of direct involvement but resigned shortly after the scandal. Cricket Australia stated they are "comfortable" with the initial findings of their investigation but remain open to new evidence. They noted that plenty of speculation has circulated in the eight years since the incident, and any new relevant information will still be considered.

Khawaja's statements have sparked renewed interest in the scandal, with many calling for further investigation. His autobiography is expected to shed more light on the incident and the team's dynamics during that period. The scandal had significant repercussions for Australian cricket, leading to changes in leadership and policies.

The cricket community is eagerly awaiting Khawaja's book and its revelations about the scandal. Key points from Khawaja's claims include that the entire team was aware of the ball-tampering incident, discussions on roughening the ball occurred before the scandal, and the team should have taken collective responsibility.

Key points

• The entire Australian team was aware of the 2018 ball-tampering incident.
• Discussions on roughening the ball occurred during the second Test in Port Elizabeth.
• Khawaja urged the team to take collective responsibility for the scandal.