The infamous Sandpapergate controversy continues to remain a significant chapter in Australian cricket history, even eight years after the events unfolded during the 2018 tour of South Africa. The incident, which resulted in major disciplinary action against several Australian players, has once again attracted attention following fresh developments involving former teammates. With the release of a new autobiography of Usman Khawaja, the episode has returned to the headlines, bringing renewed focus to the circumstances surrounding one of cricket’s most controversial moments.
David Warner, who was among the three Australian cricketers sanctioned following the infamous Newlands Test, has now publicly reacted to Khawaja following revelations made in his upcoming autobiography, Sabr. The former Australian opener took to Instagram from Nepal, where he is currently participating in the Nepal Premier League (NPL), and questioned the investigation conducted by Cricket Australia (CA) into the 2018 ball-tampering scandal.
David Warner reacts to Usman Khawaja’s sensational claims
Warner expressed his full support for Khawaja, who has made several significant claims in his upcoming autobiography. Among them, the former Australian opener alleged that the use of sandpaper on the ball had also taken place during the preceding Test against South Africa in Gqeberha, then known as Port Elizabeth.
Khawaja also suggested that awareness of the plan extended beyond the individuals who eventually faced disciplinary action. He further claimed that he had repeatedly encouraged the Australian team to accept collective responsibility but was never interviewed by investigators, despite having knowledge of the incident.
Responding to these revelations, Warner questioned how Cricket Australia’s investigation could be considered comprehensive when Khawaja, who was reportedly sitting alongside Cameron Bancroft, was not interviewed.
Warner calls for accountability and transparency over 2018 scandal
Warner, Steve Smith and Bancroft were the three players punished following the ball-tampering controversy during the third Test against South Africa at Newlands in Cape Town in March 2018. Warner received a 12-month suspension from international and domestic cricket, along with a lifetime leadership ban. The leadership restriction was eventually overturned in 2024.
Reflecting on the controversy, Warner insisted that the discussion should focus on accountability rather than targeting individuals who have spoken about their experiences.
“We’re not here to point fingers and we’re not opening our wounds. It’s about accountability, transparency, ensuring that the truth is properly examined,” said Warner.
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Warner explains why he took time to respond to Khawaja
Warner also explained why he waited a few days before addressing the revelations. He wanted to have a conversation with his daughters about the controversy and explain the images that emerged during the 2018 scandal. The former Australia opener admitted that it was a difficult discussion but emphasised the importance of honesty while speaking to his children.
“One thing I did say is, girls, tell the truth. Because lies will eventually get out,” Warner added.
He concluded his video by reiterating his support for Khawaja and acknowledging the difficult period experienced by his family, Smith and Bancroft following the scandal.
“It’s been a tough time for my family, Steven and Cameron no doubt, but this is what needed to come out,” Warner added further.
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