South African broadcaster stokes sandpaper fire with full scandal video

SuperSport has republished the full Cape Town ball-tampering footage before Australia's Test return to South Africa. The incident, known as the sandpaper gate, has been the centre of attention as Australia play a Test in South Africa for the first time since the scandal.Bancroft, Smith and Warner were punished for their part in the incident (Courtesy: Getty)New Delhi,Oct 8, 2026 13:02 ISTSouth African broadcaster Supersport decided to stoke the fire of the sandpaper scandal a little bit ahead of the first Test between Australia and the Proteas. The Aussies are heading to South Africa for the first time since the infamous sandpaper scandal that rocked Australian cricket.The ball tampering incident was given the name because Cameron Bancroft was filmed using sandpaper to alter the ball’s surface, in an attempt to generate greater movement through the air. The episode unfolded on the third day of the Cape Town Test, as South Africa began their second innings. After noticing that he had been caught on camera, Bancroft tried to conceal the sandpaper by tucking it into his trousers, having initially claimed it was a piece of tape.The controversy unfolded on the third day of the Cape Town Test, with South Africa in their second innings. After realising he had been caught on camera, Bancroft attempted to conceal the sandpaper in his trousers, initially insisting that the object was a piece of tape.Later that day, Bancroft and Australia captain Steve Smith acknowledged that the team had tampered with the ball during a press conference, although they did not reveal that sandpaper had been used. Smith said the decision had been discussed and agreed upon by the team’s “leadership group” during the lunch break. This led to all three men being fined and banned from playing international cricket. Smith and Warner were removed from their leadership roles as wellSupersport has now released the full video of the incident, with the caption reading, "Our cameras will be sharp for this 3-match Test series," said Supersport.Our cameras will be sharp for this 3-match Test series SA v Aus | 1st Test | 9 October | 9:30 CAT #SAvAUS #SSCricket https://t.co/BrUBZZWwUF— SuperSport (@SuperSportTV) October 7, 2026WHAT SA, AUS CAMPS HAVE SAID ON SANDPAPER GATEDespite the incident being eight years ago, the sandpaper gate has been the main focus heading into the Test series. Both teams have been quizzed about the incident with Australia captain just brushing the talk aside.“It was a long time ago and I don’t think there is much more to add,” Cummins said before the tour.South Africa coach Shukri Conrad was also conscious and said that he wants his team to use their skills to beat Australia. However, he said he didn't mind the fans to rile up the Aussies by reminding them of the incident. But with respect.“We’re hell-bent on beating them with our skills,” said Conrad.“I would like the fans to give them some stick – but respectfully so."The first Test between both teams will get underway in Durban on October 9.- Ends