David Warner has expressed fresh criticism toward Cricket Australia’s response to recent ball-tampering accusations against India A. These allegations have overshadowed Australia A’s seven-wicket victory last weekend.

Warner, recently named captain of the Sydney Thunder for the upcoming Big Bash League (BBL) season, has been in the spotlight after hinting he might return from Test cricket retirement for this summer’s series against India. His possible comeback adds to the growing uncertainty around Australia’s top-order batting lineup for the India series, with questions about who will open.

Warner’s comments also came just after his lifetime leadership ban was lifted. The ban, originally placed following his involvement in Australia’s 2018 ball-tampering scandal in South Africa, has been a significant part of his career history. Both he and Steve Smith were banned from international and domestic cricket for a year due to their roles in what became known as “Sandpapergate,” where sandpaper was used to tamper with the ball during a Test match in Cape Town.

Recently, Warner voiced his frustration after Cricket Australia decided not to penalize India A for alleged ball-tampering during their match against Australia A. He suggested that Cricket Australia may have quickly dismissed the issue because India is visiting Australia for a five-Test series later this year.

“If the umpires thought something happened, I’m sure there would be a follow-up,” Warner said when asked about the incident. He also emphasized that the umpires or the match referee should be the ones answering questions regarding the situation.

Cricket Australia, however, cleared India A of any wrongdoing. The umpires changed the ball during the match after noticing it had been scratched, but they determined it was due to natural wear and tear. Despite this, tensions were high on the field, with India’s wicketkeeper Ishan Kishan being overheard calling the decision to change the ball “stupid.” Umpire Shawn Craig responded by putting Kishan on report for dissent.

Warner believes that Cricket Australia should release a clear statement and that match officials should be held accountable for their decisions. “If they’re sticking by the umpires’ decisions, they need to stand up for that,” Warner commented. He added that he hasn’t seen any substantial follow-up from Cricket Australia regarding the incident.

The controversy brings back memories of Warner’s own past involvement in a ball-tampering scandal, which led to his suspension alongside Steve Smith in 2018. Despite this, Warner insists that the umpires and referees need to answer key questions following this latest incident.

Cricket Australia has reiterated that no further action will be taken against India A, stating that the ball was changed due to its deterioration and both teams were informed before play resumed.

India A will now aim to bounce back from their defeat when they face Australia A again in Melbourne on Thursday. This match is critical for several Australian players who are eager to impress captain Pat Cummins before he finalizes his squad for the opening Test against India on November 22.