Justin Langer Rebukes Rivals Over 2018 Sandpapergate

The former coach criticised South African and English teams for their conduct following the 2018 ball-tampering scandal.

Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Tennis

Justin Langer Rebukes Rivals Over 2018 Sandpapergate

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Do you think past sports scandals should be moved on from rather than continually rehashed?

Former Australia head coach Justin Langer has addressed the 2018 sandpapergate scandal, publicly criticising the conduct of South African and English cricketers during that period. His comments arrived as the Australian side competes in its current Test series in South Africa.

Why it matters

Langer's remarks revisit one of the most contentious episodes in modern cricket history, highlighting lingering tensions between the nations. The critique underscores the lasting impact the scandal has had on Australian players who faced significant public abuse during subsequent international tours.

Australia secured a dominant 214-run victory in the first Test of the current 2026 series. South Africa currently sits at 5/97 in the ongoing second Test match.

The players

Justin Langer

He is a former professional cricketer who served as the Australia head coach following the 2018 ball-tampering scandal.

Steve Smith

He is a prominent Australian cricketer who received a ban following the 2018 ball-tampering scandal.

David Warner

He is an Australian cricketer who was sanctioned by authorities due to his involvement in the 2018 sandpapergate scandal.

Cameron Bancroft

He is a cricketer who was banned for his role in the 2018 ball-tampering incident in South Africa.

The details

Speaking on the podcast The Middle With Watto, Langer addressed the fallout from the ball-tampering incident which resulted in bans for Steve Smith, David Warner, and Cameron Bancroft. He contrasted the intensity of the 2018 series with the current tour, which has been hampered by heavy rain delays.

2018: The sandpapergate ball-tampering scandal occurred.
2019: Smith and Warner received abuse at the ODI World Cup.
October 2026: Australia is currently touring South Africa for a Test series.
Tuesday evening: Day three of the Second Test match resumes.

Season Trajectory

Langer's comments recontextualise the 2018 sandpapergate scandal as a point of contention that continues to influence the competitive atmosphere between these nations. This tension persists alongside Australia's current efforts to secure a series victory before the final match in Cape Town.

Australia aims to maintain its momentum from the 214-run victory in Durban to secure a series win. The team must now navigate the second Test match in Gqeberha, which is currently subject to rain delays.

The takeaway

The scrutiny of historical scandals remains a recurring theme in international cricket long after the initial disciplinary actions. Fans should monitor the outcome of the second Test match as Australia attempts to capitalise on its strong series start.