'I stand with my brother': David Warner says Usman Khawaja's 'sandpapergate' claims '100pc accurate'

Former Australian cricketer David Warner has publicly endorsed Usman Khawaja, speaking out in support of his childhood friend and former opening partner following revelations in Khawaja's upcoming autobiography, Sabr. Khawaja claims the Australian touring team knew of the ball-tampering incident that occurred during the third Test against South Africa at Newlands in Cape Town in 2018.

Khawaja felt compelled to share his story due to the punishment faced by fellow players Steve Smith and Warner, as well as former captain Cameron Bancroft. Warner and Smith received 12-month bans from international and league cricket, while Bancroft received a nine-month ban from domestic cricket, with Warner also banned from holding any leadership roles in Australian cricket.

Cricket Australia has defended its findings from the eight-year-old investigation, but Warner's comments have reignited the debate. "It’s been eight years since I’ve spoken on this topic. And Uzzy, I throw my full support behind you. I thank you for what you’ve done. It’s 100 per cent accurate what you’ve said. Now everyone knows the truth.

It’s out there," Warner stated. He criticized the rushed and incomplete nature of the investigation, pointing out that Khawaja was not interviewed and that the process was flawed. Warner emphasized the importance of accountability and transparency, urging those responsible for the investigation to provide a thorough examination of the truth.

The renewed focus on the incident has taken an emotional toll on Warner's family, especially his 12-year-old daughter Ivy. Warner shared his concerns about explaining the situation to his children, stating, "The last couple of days I’ve been talking to my daughters, and that’s why it’s taken me a couple of days to get this out because I’ve had to tell them exactly what had happened."

He concluded by emphasizing the importance of telling the truth, saying, "Girls, tell the truth, because lies will eventually get out."