Warner Backs Khawaja's Account of 2018 Ball-Tampering Investigation

Former Australia cricketer David Warner has stated that Usman Khawaja's recent recounting of the 2018 ball-tampering scandal is entirely accurate. The controversy occurred during the third Test match against South Africa in Cape Town, where the Australian team was found to have used sandpaper to alter the condition of the ball.

In the aftermath of the incident, then-captain Steve Smith and vice-captain David Warner received one-year bans from cricket, while batsman Cameron Bancroft was suspended for nine months. Warner subsequently retired from international competition in 2024.

Khawaja recently stated that the entire Australian squad was aware of the use of sandpaper, contradicting consistent denials from the bowling attack regarding their knowledge of the plan. Khawaja also expressed surprise that he was never asked to provide evidence during the subsequent inquiry conducted by Cricket Australia.

In a video statement published on Instagram, Warner threw his full support behind his former teammate. Warner stated that it had been eight years since he last addressed the topic and confirmed that Khawaja's recounting was completely accurate, adding that the truth was now known.

Warner further criticized the governing body's handling of the matter, describing the investigation process as rushed and botched. He highlighted that Khawaja was seated next to Bancroft during the period in question yet was not interviewed by investigators, questioning how the process could be considered thorough.

According to Warner, the focus of discussing the past is centered on accountability, transparency, and ensuring the truth is properly examined rather than reopening old wounds or pointing fingers.