The 'Sandpapergate' scandal, which rocked world cricket eight years after the infamous Test match in Cape Town in 2018, has resurfaced. Former Australian opener David Warner, in an explosive Instagram post during his time playing in the Nepal Premier League, has thrown his support behind Usman Khawaja's recent claims that the whole dressing room knew about the plot to tamper with the ball. He has also slammed Cricket Australia's handling of the investigation.

“I think their initial look into it was a bit of a mess. It was done very quickly, and people need to take responsibility,” Warner said.

Main Points From David Warner's Statement

Warner has fully backed Khawaja's claims, saying “everything that's in the book… everything that's going to be in his autobiography (Sabr) is 100 per cent accurate”.

Warner points out the flaws in the CA integrity process during 2018, saying Khawaja wasn't even questioned as he was sitting beside Cameron Bancroft.

He also said the public should stop blaming Khawaja for not speaking up until now and instead question those who didn't investigate fully.

“There was a lot of misinformation over the last eight years, and a lot of people didn't speak.”

The scandal was brought to light again after Khawaja said it was common knowledge amongst the group that there was sandpaper on the pitch at Newlands. The original investigation into the incident led to heavy punishments for Cameron Bancroft (9-month ban), Steve Smith and David Warner (1-year ban and original lifetime bans as captains).

But Warner is arguing that there wasn't much done to investigate properly.

“Uzzy was sitting next to Cameron Bancroft. Uzzy was not interviewed. How is that a thorough investigation? It baffles me.” -David Warner

Warner also defended Khawaja from those who are criticizing him for speaking up about the incident to boost his book.

“This is Usman's story, this is what Usmans believe. Uzzy wrote down every single thing from that day on. Uzzy, thank you. Now everyone knows the truth; it's out there.”

Cricket Australia Defends 2018 Decision

Despite backlash from two of their most high-profile recent stars, Cricket Australia quickly defended their decision, saying they are confident in their decision made eight years ago.

“During this time there has been the ongoing opportunity to present any relevant information, and this remains the case.

All relevant information presented to CA to date has been properly considered, and we remain comfortable with the findings of our integrity process.” -Cricket Australia Official Statement

Although they believe the issue has been resolved, Warner says the aim isn't to cause pain or blame individuals. But to make sure the governing body is held to the same standard as the players.

Although they believe the issue has been resolved, Warner says the aim isn't to cause pain or blame individuals. But to make sure the governing body is held to the same standard as the players.