Wasim Akram doubts Pat Cummins' denial in Sandpapergate row
The former Pakistan captain argued that experienced bowlers would immediately recognise if sandpaper had been used to alter a cricket ball.
Former Pakistan captain Wasim Akram has expressed doubt regarding Australian cricketer Pat Cummins' claim that he was unaware of the 2018 ball-tampering incident. According to the Times of India, Akram suggested that a seasoned bowler would instantly notice if a ball had been tampered with using sandpaper.
The controversy resurfaced following claims in Usman Khawaja's book, Sabr, that the entire Australian team was aware of the plan during the Cape Town Test against South Africa. While David Warner has supported Khawaja, Cummins has dismissed the allegations as 'complete and utter nonsense'.
Akram, speaking in a video shared on social media, explained that the marks left by sandpaper differ from natural wear or scratches caused by the ball hitting the ground. He noted that while bowlers shine one side of the ball to assist reverse swing, sandpaper creates a distinct type of scratch.
The former captain stated that he is not taking sides in the dispute but noted that Australians are known for their honesty. He added that as an experienced bowler, he would know 'straight away' if something was not right with the ball.
The 2018 scandal involved Cameron Bancroft being caught using sandpaper, leading to sanctions for him, Steve Smith, and David Warner. Cummins maintained that he did not know the tampering was happening and expressed shock at Khawaja's recent admissions.