Usman Khawaja is "100% accurate" in his recounting of the 2018 ball-tampering scandal, says former teammate David Warner. Warner also criticized Cricket Australia's investigation as "rushed and botched," stating Khawaja was not interviewed despite sitting next to Cameron Bancroft. Australia used sandpaper to alter the ball during the third Test against South Africa in Cape Town.
Warner and captain Steve Smith were banned for a year, while Bancroft received a nine-month suspension. Khawaja claimed the entire Australia team knew of the plan, contradicting bowler denials. Warner retired from international cricket in 2024.
He delayed responding to Khawaja to explain the incident to his daughters, telling them to "tell the truth because lies will eventually get out." Cricket Australia maintains the integrity process findings remain valid despite the speculation. Australia is set to play England in limited-overs and Test matches starting Friday.
Source: BBC Sport · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing