Lehmann fires back at Khawaja over Sandpaper scandal claims

Former Australia head coach Darren Lehmann has pushed back against Usman Khawaja’s claims that the entire Australian team knew about the ball-tampering plan during the infamous 2018 South Africa tour.

Speaking to ABC, Lehmann questioned whether all players and support staff were aware of the use of sandpaper, maintaining that he could not speak on behalf of the team. He acknowledged that ball-tampering had long been part of cricket but stressed that it did not justify the actions that took place.

Lehmann, who was cleared of direct involvement and prior knowledge following Cricket Australia’s investigation, resigned shortly after the four-Test series became known as Sandpapergate.

He also expressed sympathy for those affected by the renewed controversy, saying Khawaja’s revelations had brought back difficult memories for the players and their families. Lehmann added that he had moved on from the incident after eight years.

The controversy resurfaced ahead of the release of Khawaja’s autobiography, *Sabr*, in which the former Australian opener alleged that the entire team knew about the plan to alter the ball’s condition.

According to Khawaja, discussions about ball tampering began during the second Test in Port Elizabeth, where players reportedly explored different ways to rough up the ball. He claimed that sandpaper eventually emerged as a possible method.

Khawaja’s account further suggests that then-captain Steve Smith later distanced himself from the discussions, while Cameron Bancroft allegedly volunteered to carry out the plan.

The scandal came to light during the third Test in Cape Town when television cameras captured Bancroft attempting to tamper with the ball.

Following the incident, Smith and David Warner were handed 12-month suspensions, while Bancroft received a nine-month ban. Smith also lost the captaincy.

At the time, Cricket Australia’s investigation concluded that the three players were the only individuals with prior knowledge of the plan.

However, Khawaja has now disputed that conclusion, claiming he encouraged his teammates to accept collective responsibility rather than leaving three players to face the consequences alone.