Darren Lehmann disputes Usman Khawaja's claim that entire Australia squad knew of 2018 ball-tampering

Former Australia coach Darren Lehmann has rejected claims made by Usman Khawaja that the entire national cricket team was aware of the ball-tampering plot during the 2018 South Africa tour. Khawaja alleged in his upcoming book, Sabr, that every squad member knew about the sandpaper scheme, adding that conversations regarding the tactic started during the preceding Test match in Port Elizabeth. According to BBC Sport, Khawaja also expressed surprise that he was never questioned by Cricket Australia during their inquiry into the scandal.

Reactions and Denials

Lehmann stated that not everyone in the dressing room would have had knowledge of the plan. He admitted that altering the condition of the ball was a widespread practice in international cricket for a century and a half, though he maintained he was unaware of the specific use of sandpaper by the players. This perspective contrasts with the group of four bowlers—consisting of the current Test captain, along with three other frontline quick and spin options—who have continually stated they had no prior awareness of the illicit action.

Consequences

The Cape Town controversy led to lengthy suspensions for the captain, the vice-captain, and a opening batter who was caught on camera using the abrasive material. Lehmann stepped down from his coaching role following the scandal, and the team faced severe penalties and widespread public fallout. While the former coach acknowledged that the squad paid a steep price for the incident, he noted that such methods have since become obsolete in the sport.

Context

International cricket boards enforce strict rules against changing the condition of a ball to ensure a fair contest between bat and ball. Historical controversies surrounding illegal ball manipulation have occasionally surfaced in the sport, leading to stricter enforcement by match officials and governing bodies. Players found guilty of these infractions face heavy fines and match bans under the sports code of conduct.