Usman Khawaja makes changes to book tour after fiery TV interview

Penguin, Usman Khawaja's publisher, has disclosed that minor modifications have been implemented to the cricket star's book tour following a contentious television interview. Despite speculations about the tour's cancellation, the publisher reaffirmed that the tour remains intact. However, the adjustments were necessitated by the fiery TV interview.

Khawaja's book, 'Sabr', includes a chapter titled 'Sandpaper', which delves into Australia's controversial 2018 tour of South Africa. The chapter specifically addresses the ball-tampering scandal that led to the suspensions of Steve Smith, David Warner, and Cameron Bancroft. During the 7.30 interview on ABC, Khawaja exhibited discomfort while dodging questions about his book's 'Sandpaper' chapter.

In response to the reports of tour cancellation, Penguin published a statement asserting that the tour remains "100 percent" on track, albeit with some alterations. The publisher did not disclose the specific interviews that were modified. Khawaja vowed during the interview not to incite a "witch-hunt" following his allegations about the Australian team's involvement in the ball-tampering scheme.

His claims have been corroborated by Warner, who affirmed the "100 percent truth" of Khawaja's assertions. Conversely, Bancroft declined to comment further on Khawaja's allegations during a brief press conference at Melbourne Airport before a cricket match. Smith has not offered any public commentary on Khawaja's book. Australian fast bowler Mitchell Starc dismissed claims that the team was aware of the ball-tampering plan, making a statement during a media appearance.