Australian cricketer David Warner has expressed his feelings about being the primary target of criticism since the infamous sandpaper ball-tampering incident. Warner, along with then-captain Steve Smith, faced a year-long suspension for their involvement in ball-tampering during a 2018 Test match against South Africa. Cameron Bancroft, who executed the act, was also banned for nine months.
As Warner approaches the end of his international career at the ongoing T20 World Cup, he is eager to move past the constant reminders of the Cape Town controversy. "There’s only so much one can endure," said Warner, 37, in an interview with Cricket Australia. "Since returning in 2018, I’ve consistently been the one facing most of the backlash. It's a relief to know that once I step away, I won’t have to deal with it anymore."
Warner was identified as the mastermind behind the ball-tampering scheme, while Smith was criticised for being aware of the plan and failing to intervene. Unlike his teammates, Warner received a lifetime ban from holding leadership positions in Australian cricket. Despite this, he has remained a vital player in the squad, contributing to their aspirations of adding the T20 World Cup title to their achievements in the 50-over and World Test Championships.
Reflecting on his legacy, Warner acknowledged that the scandal would always be part of how people view him but hoped his contributions to the game would also be acknowledged. He stated, "For true cricket enthusiasts, I hope they'll see me as a player who sought to innovate and elevate the sport. My aim was always to follow the path set by previous openers and bring a dynamic approach to scoring, particularly in Test cricket."
As Warner gears up for retirement, he looks forward to focusing on his illustrious career and contributions to the game, hoping to leave behind the controversy that has shadowed him for years.