Starc denies knowledge of Sandpapergate amid persistent claims
Sky Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Nov 10, 2026, 7:45 AM
Last updated Nov 10, 2026

Mitchell Starc has stated he had no knowledge of the ball-tampering scandal known as 'Sandpapergate,' responding to allegations made by Usman Khawaja. Khawaja suggested that all of the Australian team was aware of the scheme during the South Africa tour in 2018. Cricket Australia has decided not to reopen the investigation into the incident, which has generated renewed discussion and scrutiny among players and fans. This announcement comes in light of the comments made by Khawaja, which have resurfaced interest in the events from four years ago.
- •Mitchell Starc denies involvement in 'Sandpapergate'.
- •Usman Khawaja claims the entire team was aware of the scheme.
- •Incident occurred during Australia's 2018 tour of South Africa.
- •Cricket Australia will not reopen the investigation.
- •Increasing scrutiny on the team's culture from past events.
- 7:45 AMSky Sports — Starc denies knowledge of 'Sandpapergate' as Cricket Australia won't reopen investigation
"Australia fast bowler Mitchell Starc has denied any prior knowledge of 'Sandpapergate' after former team-mate Usman Khawaja's explosive claims that the entire team knew about the ball-tampering scheme in South Africa in 2018.
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