Sandpaper made Australia the story in 2018 while South Africa’s achievement faded into irrelevance

Writer Daniel Gallan argues that Australia's 2018 ball-tampering scandal completely overshadowed South Africa's historic 3-1 home Test series victory. While Australia experienced widespread national anguish and issued lengthy bans to Steve Smith, David Warner, and Cameron Bancroft, the intense reaction was viewed with surprise by South African players.

Former South Africa captain Faf du Plessis and bowler Vernon Philander felt the punishments and political intervention were excessive. Despite standout performances, including South Africa crushing Australia by 492 runs in Johannesburg, Gallan contends the hosts' crowning achievement remains eclipsed by the enduring legacy of the scandal.