Former Australian batsman David Warner has supported statements made by teammate Usman Khawaja, confirming that the entire national squad was aware of the scheme to alter the condition of the ball during the 2018 Test series in South Africa.
Addressing the ongoing scandal six years later, Warner stated in a social media video posted on Monday that Khawaja’s disclosures were “100 percent accurate.” He extended his thanks to Khawaja while criticizing the official inquiry conducted by Cricket Australia following the incident at Newlands in Cape Town.
The controversy initially resulted in suspensions for Warner, Steve Smith, and Cameron Bancroft after sandpaper was used to rough up the ball during the third Test. Warner, who stepped away from international cricket in 2024, described Cricket Australia’s investigative process as flawed, adding, “This whole interview process was rushed and botched.” “Uzzie was sitting next to Cameron Bancroft.
Warner questioned the thoroughness of the original probe, noting that Khawaja was seated directly beside Bancroft at the time yet was never formally questioned by investigators. He emphasized that their intention was not to assign blame or reopen past grievances, but rather to pursue transparency, accountability, and a proper examination of the facts. “We’re not here to point fingers and we’re not opening old wounds,” added the 40-year-old. “It’s about accountability, transparency and ensuring the truth is properly examined and perhaps it’s time people stop scrutinising the person asking for accountability and start asking those responsible of the investigation to provide it.”.
The renewed discussion follows recent excerpts from Khawaja’s autobiography, where he revealed that candid, informal conversations regarding ball tampering were widespread across the entire team, rather than limited to specific players or support staff. Khawaja explained that he decided to address the matter publicly after previously promising Warner he would share his perspective. On Sunday, he added that he had chosen to speak about the ‘Sandpapergate’ scandal now after promising childhood friend Warner that he would share his side of the story.
Warner also addressed the history of media reporting surrounding the event, pointing out that numerous inaccurate statements had been published over the last eight years while many individuals maintained silence. He suggested that public focus should shift from questioning those seeking answers to evaluating the actions of those responsible for conducting the inquiry.
Cricket Australia responded to recent developments by standing behind its 2018 findings, which concluded that knowledge of the plan was restricted to Smith, Warner, and Bancroft. The governing body stated on Saturday that all relevant details submitted to date were thoroughly evaluated, expressing confidence in its integrity proceedings while noting that channels remain open for any new information. “There has been the ongoing opportunity to present any relevant information, and this remains the case.”.
The issue of broader team awareness previously led to a joint statement in 2021 from the four primary bowlers in that Test—Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc, and Nathan Lyon—who denied any prior knowledge of the plot. Ahead of the book’s release, current Australian Test captain Pat Cummins confirmed he had spoken with Khawaja and downplayed concerns of further disruption.
