How a virulent series gave rise to Sandpapergate

As Australia prepares to return to South Africa for the first time in eight years, the ghosts of the 2018 series are likely to resurface. The 2018 series proved to be a catastrophic event for Australian cricket, as the team was humiliated by a single yellow sandpaper patch. However, it is essential to remember the unpleasant nature of the 2018 series before the sandpaper incident.

The Australia-South Africa rivalry has always been fierce, and following their 4-0 Ashes victory, Australia was eager to take on its next formidable rival. However, within Australian cricket, there existed a win-at-all-costs mentality, which led to unacceptable behavior during matches. Nathan Lyon admitted that the Australian team would push the boundaries whenever they played, and the hostility extended to the crowd in Durban, who behaved like spectators at the Gabba.

The flashpoint of the series occurred during a game in Durban when Nathan Lyon dropped the ball near AB de Villiers, provoking David Warner, who retaliated by attacking Quinton de Kock. Warner's aggression was not entirely unprovoked, as a pair of Cricket South Africa officials were even photographed wearing Sonny Bill Williams masks, a clear dig at Warner.

Despite Australia's initial victory in the first Test, the Proteas bounced back to win the series. The involvement of high-profile lawyer in downgrading Rabada's charge showcased the intense turmoil surrounding the series. The final Test in Cape Town saw Cameron Bancroft using a square of sandpaper to roughen the ball, leading to his nine-month ban.

This incident, known as Sandpapergate, played a crucial role in South Africa's historic 492-run victory, marking their first win against Australia since 1970.