Wasim Akram, Hafeez challenge Cummins over sandpaper scandal

Pakistan cricket legends Wasim Akram and Mohammad Hafeez have reignited debate over Australia’s infamous sandpaper scandal, questioning the position taken by current Australian captain Pat Cummins regarding the controversial 2018 ball-tampering incident.

Former Pakistan captain and legendary fast bowler Wasim Akram shared his views in a video posted on social media on Saturday, November 14, arguing that experienced bowlers can easily recognise the difference between naturally worn cricket balls and those deliberately damaged using sandpaper.

Akram explained that ordinary scratches develop on a cricket ball during normal play, particularly when one side is repeatedly polished or comes into contact with the pitch. However, marks created by sandpaper are noticeably different.

According to the former fast bowler, an experienced player can identify such differences simply by examining the ball’s surface.

He also encouraged cricket fans to conduct their own experiment by comparing a new cricket ball with one scratched using sandpaper to understand the difference.

Akram clarified that his comments were not intended to support or oppose any particular individual. However, he stressed that Australian cricket had traditionally been associated with honesty and fierce competition.

His remarks come amid renewed controversy surrounding Cummins’ position that he was neither involved in the ball-tampering incident nor aware of the use of sandpaper.

Former Pakistan all-rounder Mohammad Hafeez also joined the discussion, criticising Cummins’ stance and describing it as meaningless in his social media reaction.

The controversy dates back to March 2018, when Australia batter Cameron Bancroft was caught on camera attempting to alter the ball’s condition using sandpaper during a Test match against South Africa in Cape Town.

The incident resulted in major disciplinary action, with then-captain Steve Smith and vice-captain David Warner receiving one-year bans, while Bancroft was suspended for nine months.

The scandal has returned to the spotlight following fresh comments from former Australian batter Usman Khawaja, who argued that more players should have accepted collective responsibility.

With two prominent Pakistani cricket figures now weighing in, the renewed debate has once again raised questions about accountability, honesty and the spirit of the game.