Last Updated on 38 seconds ago by Charbel Coorey
Australia’s upcoming ODI series against England has taken a backseat this week with sandpapergate rearing to its head. Captain Mitch Marsh, predictably, was asked by media about the events that transpired eight years ago in Cape Town in light of Usman Khawaja’s revelations last weekend.
Marsh played a straight bat to the questions and says he is focused on the ODI series.
“There’s been a lot of noise and I respect that certain people have told their stories, but I’m not here to share mine today,” he said, as quoted by Nine News.
“I know that might sound weird, but it’s a big week for us and an important time for this one-day group, and my sole focus has been on preparing for tomorrow.
“I’m not here to go back on my recollections of South Africa.”
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Respect that Khawaja has told his story, but I’ve moved on from the sandpaper ball tampering scandal – Mitch Marsh
Marsh says he respects Khawaja for telling his story. However, the Australia ODI captain says his focus is on the opening match against England in Perth on Friday.
“I really respect that Uzzy has told his story, he’s written his book, and my focus is really on tomorrow.
“My honest answer is because I’ve moved on, I respect that others probably haven’t, but I have. And I hope that’s respected.”
Marsh was bowling at the time when the sandpaper was revealed on the big screen in Cape Town. He faced further questions from the media regarding why he didn’t sign the joint statement with the bowlers released in 2021, denying prior knowledge. However, Marsh refused to go into detail.
“I’m not here to speak on behalf of others. As I’ve stated, I’m not really keen to go back into my recollections of any of the times throughout this period,” Marsh said.
“It was a really tough time for Australian cricket and I know there’s still a lot of people hurting…but now’s not the time for me to share my story.
“I honestly have had a really clear focus this week to zero in on this group and move forward.”
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Mitch Marsh not the only captain to front media on sandpapergate
Pat Cummins will speak on Friday morning at Cricket Central in Western Sydney. The Test captain is yet to make a statement this week following Khawaja’s comments, which have been emphatically supported by David Warner.
“I’m training at Cricket Central tomorrow morning before the Blues play in the Shield match. Happy to speak with any and all media about the events of this week at 9.30am,” Cummins wrote on X.
“I’ve taken some time to try and better understand the long list and full extent of Uzzy’s allegations so I can respond properly.”
