Australia captain Pat Cummins denies Usman Khawaja's claims over 2018 ball-tampering

UPDATE - follow-up to 'Wrong' and 'nonsense' - Cummins on Khawaja sandpaper claims: Australia Test captain Pat Cummins has strongly rejected former team-mate Usman Khawaja's claims that the entire national team knew about the 2018 ball-tampering scheme in South Africa. In an autobiography titled Sabr, Khawaja alleged that the team was aware of the plot and that players should share responsibility. Speaking during a 68-minute media conference in Sydney, Cummins called the allegations complete and utter nonsense.

Cummins Response

Cummins stated that if Khawaja meant the team knew sandpaper was going out on to the field, he is entirely wrong, adding that he has maintained this for the last eight years. The Australia captain also said he received advice that some of Khawaja's claims are defamatory, though he will not take legal action. He mentioned speaking with Steve Smith and Usman Khawaja since the book's release, but has not spoken with David Warner. Furthermore, Cummins described the one-year bans given to Smith and Warner, along with a nine-month suspension for Cameron Bancroft, as heavy handed.

Reactions

Khawaja's allegations have drawn mixed responses from former players and staff. Darren Lehmann, who served as Australia head coach in 2018, and former assistant coach Graeme Hick both rejected the claims, alongside fast bowler Mitchell Starc. However, David Warner and seam bowler Chadd Sayers have supported Khawaja's account. Cummins also met with Cricket Australia chief executive Todd Greenberg, who reviewed the files from the original investigation.

Context

This dispute stems from the infamous 2018 Test match in Cape Town, where sandpaper was used to alter the ball during a match against South Africa. The resulting fallout led to major suspensions and a lasting debate over the culture within Australian cricket. This follows an earlier report, covered earlier on 13 Nov 2026: 'Wrong' and 'nonsense' - Cummins on Khawaja sandpaper claims.