Australia's first Test tour of South Africa since the 2018 'Sandpapergate' ball-tampering scandal begins in Durban. The scandal involved Cameron Bancroft using sandpaper to alter the ball, leading to bans for him, Steve Smith, and David Warner. South Africa won that series 3-1.
Former bowler Shaun Pollock recalls the global shock and says the incident overshadowed on-field action. Australia have not toured since, though South Africa beat them in the World Test Championship final at Lord's. Pollock believes the Australia series is more special than upcoming England Tests, despite England's Barmy Army traveling.
He notes replays of the 2018 series have been shown to build animosity, but expects a passionate rather than overly hostile reception. The World Test Championship win has boosted Test cricket's popularity in South Africa.
Source: Sky Sports Champions League · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing