Starc Says Team Unaware of Sandpaper Issue, Relations with Khwaja Tense

In a candid interview at the Summer of the Century launch, Mitchell Starc dismissed former teammate Usman Khwaja’s assertion that the Australian squad collectively knew about the sandpaper scandal during the 2018 Cape Town Test. Starc referenced the joint statement issued in 2021 with Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood and Nathan Lyon, which categorically denied any knowledge of ball tampering on the field.

"I didn’t follow the media storm around his claims closely," Starc said, noting that eight years ago there were varied opinions on the matter. He added that extensive briefings have been given since the incident, and his stance remains unchanged from the 2021 declaration.

Starc clarified that the bowlers had no idea that sandpaper or any other substance was being used on the match ball. He mentioned that the alleged “book” was first seen on a large screen in Cape Town and that he has never read it, nor does he plan to.

He also denied being aware of the Bancruft equipment alleged to have been used during the Port Elizabeth Test, calling it the first time he heard the claim.

Regarding his relationship with Khwaja, Starc admitted they have not spoken in the past one or two days and that any future contact depends entirely on Khwaja. The tension underscores how the controversy has affected personal ties within the team.

The statements arrive just before Australia commences an eight‑match white‑ball series against England, with four Test matches against New Zealand scheduled for later in the year. Starc expressed disappointment that the scandal re‑emerged before the summer program, asserting that the team is eager to focus on the upcoming fixtures and leave past disputes behind.