South Africa uses 2018 sandpaper scandal footage to promote Australia Test series
SuperSport posted a three‑minute clip of the 2018 sandpaper scandal as it promotes the three‑match Test series starting in Durban.
By Felo News Desk · Published
South Africa's cricket broadcast partner SuperSport posted a three‑minute, 49‑second clip of the 2018 ball‑tampering incident involving Cameron Bancroft as it promotes the three‑match Test series against Australia, which begins in Durban on Friday.
What happened
The clip shows Bancroft applying sandpaper to the ball, a conversation between former coach Darren Lehmann and Peter Handscomb on a walkie‑talkie, and the subsequent exchange with umpires and captain Steve Smith. SuperSport shared the video on its X account on Monday, just days before the first Test.
What the reports add
Al Jazeera noted that the series marks Australia’s first Test in South Africa since the 2018 scandal and that the visitors are unlikely to face more than a few heckles over the incident. The outlet also highlighted that the scandal led to bans for several Australian players, including captain Steve Smith. In contrast, the Sydney Morning Herald focused on the broadcaster’s use of the footage, describing the clip as a three‑minute, 49‑second excerpt that has been widely viewed and shared on social media.
What was said
SuperSport’s post was accompanied by the caption: “Our cameras will be sharp for this three‑match Test series.” The Sydney Morning Herald reported the message verbatim. No direct comments from Australian officials or South African cricket authorities were included in either source.
How it came about
The 2018 ball‑tampering scandal, often referred to as “Sandpapergate,” saw Australian players caught using sandpaper to roughen the ball during a Test in Cape Town. The incident triggered a major reckoning for Australian cricket, resulting in bans for players such as Steve Smith. This upcoming series is the first Test tour of Australia to South Africa since that episode. Earlier Felo coverage of the two nations’ recent limited‑overs encounters can be found in South Africa bowl first and dominate early in 3rd ODI against Australia in Potchefstroom (2026‑09‑30).
Key facts
- SuperSport posted a 3‑minute, 49‑second clip of the 2018 sandpaper scandal to promote the upcoming Test series. (smh.com.au)
- The Test series between South Africa and Australia begins in Durban on Friday, October 9, 2026. (aljazeera.com)
- The 2018 scandal involved Cameron Bancroft applying sandpaper to the ball and led to bans for players including Steve Smith. (aljazeera.com)
Sources
- [1] aljazeera.com
- [2] smh.com.au
