Whole team knew! Khawaja reignites sandpaper conspiracy

Recently retired opener Usman Khawaja has reignited the controversy surrounding Australia’s 2018 Sandpaper Affair, claiming in his forthcoming autobiography, Sabr, that knowledge of the ball-tampering operation extended well beyond Steve Smith, David Warner and Cameron Bancroft.

Khawaja alleges that the entire Australian touring party, including players and coaching staff, knew about the discussions and that sandpaper had been used during the second Test against South Africa at Port Elizabeth, before the infamous incident at Cape Town. He also claims Bancroft volunteered to carry out the operation following dressing-room discussions, while Smith walked away from the conversation.

Khawaja says he argued that responsibility should have been shared by the wider team rather than resting on three players, who ultimately received lengthy suspensions.

He claims he remained silent after Smith asked him not to speak publicly, as Smith wanted to accept responsibility. His revelations raise fresh questions about Cricket Australia’s original investigation and the extent of knowledge within the Australian camp. Cricket Australia, however, continues to stand by the findings of its 2018 inquiry.

Nov 2026