Past lingers as South Africa host Australia

Eight years after the infamous ‘Sandpapergate’ series, South Africa are set to host Australia for the first time since the ball-tampering scandal of 2017-18. 

The three-Test series begins in Durban on Friday, with memories of a bitter and controversial tour adding intrigue to a contest between reigning World Test Champions (WTC) South Africa and current WTC leaders Australia. 

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Both camps have played down the events of 2018, with Australia captain Pat Cummins saying there is little more to add, while South Africa coach Shukri Conrad insists his side are focused on beating Australia through their skills. 

Yet, with the past never far from the surface, history is sure to add an extra edge to an already highly anticipated contest.

The three Tests, scheduled to be held in Durban, Gqeberha and Cape Town, will follow the same order as the 2018 series.

Unlike South Africa, Australia have not yet confirmed their playing XI. But there is a good chance the visitors will field the same frontline attack that featured in the first three Tests eight years ago: Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon.

Steve Smith, one of the three Australians – alongside David Warner and Cameron Bancroft – who received 12-month bans following the ‘Sandpapergate’ scandal, also returns. Having captained Australia ten times since his leadership ban ended, he would stand in for Cummins should injury strike.

South Africa have five survivors in their squad from that series: captain Temba Bavuma, Aiden Markram, Keshav Maharaj, Wiaan Mulder and Kagiso Rabada.

However, South Africa’s spearhead Rabada will miss the first Test as he continues his recovery from a hamstring injury sustained in June.

When conditions have allowed for spinners to come into the game, they've [Maharaj and Harmer] been able to play an effective role.

South Africa captain Temba Bavuma

For the batsmen and for the bowling group as well, getting into that grind (of bringing out a result) is important…Whatever tempo gets thrown at us or what the game needs, we must make sure we match that.

Australia captain Pat Cummins