Skip to content The sandpaper scandal erupted again after Australia captain Pat Cummins branded claims from Usman Khawaja complete and utter nonsense. Khawaja had suggested that the entire playing XI from the 2018 Cape Town Test knew about the plot. Cummins fired back immediately, insisting that Khawaja’s version of events is 100% wrong.
The dispute reopens old wounds for a national side that spent years repairing its public image. Hearing the current Test captain publicly dismiss his own teammate’s account adds fresh drama to an already bitter chapter.
Also read: Pat Cummins Slams Khawaja Sandpaper Allegations
Why the sandpaper scandal still haunts Australian cricket
The 2018 sandpaper scandal in South Africa remains Australian cricket’s most damaging modern controversy. Cameron Bancroft was caught using abrasive paper on the ball, leading to lengthy bans for Steve Smith and David Warner. Those punishments sidelined Australia’s top leaders, but other players escaped sanction after investigators found no broader conspiracy.
Khawaja suggested that the entire Cape Town team knew about the sandpaper scandal plot as it unfolded on the field. That claim directly challenges the official findings from Cricket Australia. Cummins, who played in that match, rejected the idea that every player shared guilt for the ball tampering.
Where the sandpaper scandal fallout leads next
Revisiting the sandpaper scandal creates unexpected tension inside the modern Australian team. Khawaja remains an active Test opener, while Cummins leads the side across formats. Public disagreements between senior teammates are rare, especially over an episode that previously tore Australian cricket apart.
Both players must now manage any dressing room awkwardness before Australia’s next international fixture. Cummins has drawn his line on the 2018 allegations, and cricket fans will watch closely to see if Khawaja responds.
Source: ESPNcricinfo
