Former Australian opener Usman Khawaja’s upcoming memoir, titled Sabr, has become a topic of debate in recent times. The book has opened Pandora’s box about the Sandpapergate saga that took place in 2018.

Australian seamer Mitchell Starc was asked to comment on his former teammate’s claims that the entire side knew about the events that unfolded during the series.

The 36-year-old was quoted by NDTV as saying, “I haven’t paid much attention to it so far, to be honest. There are differing opinions about incidents that happened eight years ago. The team was heavily grilled, and it hasn’t stopped since then. I wouldn’t want to speak on behalf of other bowlers, but my statement doesn’t change from the one made in 2021.”

Five years ago, Cameron Bancroft, who was seen rubbing the ball with sandpaper, said that the entire bowling group knew about it. Starc, along with his teammates Josh Hazlewood, current skipper Pat Cumminsand spinner Nathan Lyon, released a statement which denied any prior knowledge.

“This is the first time I am being made aware of any such incident taking place in Gqeberha. I would leave that for the author of the book to explain.

As our statement said, we weren’t aware of things being taken onto the field; that’s where I would leave it,” Starc added.

David Warner backs former teammate

Ex-Australian opening batter David Warnerwho formed a famed opening stand with Khawaja in Test cricket, backed his claims. “It is 100% accurate what you said,” Warner said.

“It has been eight years now since I spoke on this topic, and I fully throw my support behind you.

Thank you for what you have done. Now everyone knows the truth, and it is out there. People wanted to know it, and you have come out and said it. It has been a difficult time not only for my family and me, but also for Steven’s and Cameron’s as well,” he added.