Australian opener David Warner acknowledged that the infamous ‘Sandpaper Gate’ scandal will cast a lasting shadow over his storied international career, which he plans to conclude after the ICC T20 World Cup 2024.

Despite winning three World Cups and establishing himself as one of the game’s premier batters, Warner admitted the ball-tampering incident will forever remain as a ‘scar’ on his distinguished resume as he prepares to retire.

In January 2024, Warner brought an end to his illustrious Test and ODI career, having amassed 49 international centuries. However, his celebrated career was marred by the infamous Sandpaper Gate scandal, which resulted in a one-year ban and demotion from his role as Australian vice-captain. After serving the suspension, Warner made a successful return to the national team.

The 37-year-old southpaw feared that his impressive batting records and career achievements would forever be overshadowed by the ‘Sandpaper’ scandal that occurred during Australia’s 3rd Test against South Africa in 2018.

“The ‘sandpaper scandal’ will undoubtedly be a focal point when people look back on my career in the years ahead. Yet, I hope my true cricket fans and closest supporters will remember me as a player who strived to transform the game, rather than dwell on that controversy. I aimed to emulate the greats who came before me, scoring runs at a blistering pace and transforming Test cricket,” stated Warnes.

“My journey from T20 to opening the batting in Tests exemplifies this ambition. While the 2018 incident is regrettable and will always be associated with me, I hope my legacy will be defined by my efforts to innovate and push the boundaries of the sport I love,” he added.

Warner is only 67 runs away from scoring 19,000 runs and is Australia’s second-highest run scorer of all time behind Ricky Ponting.