Archive · 9 Oct 2026
Cummins Says Khawaja Can Tell Sandpapergate Story
Usman Khawaja is preparing to release a book that is expected to discuss the Sandpapergate cricket scandal.
Pat Cummins said Khawaja gave him a heads-up about the book a few weeks ago.
Cummins said Khawaja can tell his story.
The scandal involved players using sandpaper to change the ball.
Steve Smith and David Warner received 12-month bans, while Cameron Bancroft received a 12-month suspension.
Cummins said the investigations and questions were dealt with at the time.
He also said the Australian team has changed and moved on over the past eight to nine years.
His main focus, he said, is leading the team.
Australia is scheduled to play South Africa in a three-Test series beginning in October 2026.
Pat Cummins said Usman Khawaja told him weeks ago that he was releasing a book.
Cummins said he had no problem with Khawaja telling his story about Sandpapergate.
Cummins said the investigations were completed at the time and the team had moved on.
The scandal involved Steve Smith, David Warner and Cameron Bancroft using sandpaper on the ball.
Australia and South Africa are scheduled to begin a three-Test series in Durban on October 9, 2026.
- Who
- Australian captain Pat Cummins responded to Usman Khawaja's planned book about Sandpapergate.
- What
- Cummins said Khawaja can tell his story and that the team has moved on from the scandal.
- When
- Cummins spoke at a pre-match press conference; the three-Test Australia-South Africa series is scheduled to start October 9, 2026.
- Where
- The series is scheduled to begin at Kingsmead in Durban, South Africa.
- Why
- Khawaja is preparing a book expected to share behind-the-scenes details of Sandpapergate.
- Book author
- Usman Khawaja
- Cummins' response
- He said he had no problem with Khawaja telling his story.
- Scandal
- Sandpapergate involved players using sandpaper to shine the ball.
- Players named in the scandal
- Steve Smith, David Warner and Cameron Bancroft
- Sanctions reported
- Smith and Warner received 12-month bans; Bancroft received a 12-month suspension.
- Upcoming series
- Australia versus South Africa, three Tests
- Scheduled start
- October 9, 2026, at Kingsmead in Durban