Mitchell Marsh Avoids Khawaja Ball-Tampering Claims

Australia’s ODI captain Mitchell Marsh has declined to discuss fresh allegations surrounding the 2018 ball-tampering scandal following revelations in Usman Khawaja’s autobiography. Speaking in Perth on Thursday, November 12, ahead of Australia’s opening ODI against England, Marsh said he had moved on from the controversy and preferred to concentrate on the upcoming series.

Mitchell Marsh Responds to Usman Khawaja’s Allegations

Marsh acknowledged that Khawaja’s recently released memoir, Sabr, had renewed scrutiny of the Cape Town scandal.

The Australian all-rounder confirmed speaking with Khawaja but declined to disclose their conversation or provide his recollections of the incident.

Marsh, who played in the controversial 2018 Test against South Africa, said he respected those who wanted to revisit the episode but was unwilling to discuss his involvement.

Khawaja Claims More Players Knew About Sandpaper Plot

In his autobiography, Khawaja claims knowledge of the ball-tampering plan extended beyond Steve Smith, David Warner and Cameron Bancroft, the three players sanctioned following the scandal.

Bancroft was caught using sandpaper to alter the condition of the ball during the Cape Town Test.

Cricket Australia subsequently suspended Smith and Warner for 12 months each, while Bancroft received a nine-month ban.

Khawaja has argued that responsibility should have been shared more widely across the Australian team.

Cricket Australia Rules Out Fresh Investigation

Cricket Australia has rejected calls to reopen the investigation, maintaining that the available evidence provides insufficient grounds for another inquiry.

Test captain Pat Cummins is also expected to face questions about Khawaja’s claims. Cummins previously joined three Australian bowlers in denying prior knowledge of sandpaper being taken onto the field.

Marsh will lead Australia against England in the opening ODI in Perth on Friday, November 13.