Cricket Australia (CA) has officially lifted David Warner's lifetime leadership ban, making him eligible to captain Sydney Thunder in the Big Bash League (BBL) for the 2024-25 season. Warner's ban from any leadership role within Australian cricket was originally imposed after the 2018 ball-tampering incident in South Africa and was rescinded on October 25, marking six years since the controversy.
Warner’s case was reviewed by an independent three-member panel earlier this month. The panel unanimously agreed to lift the ban, noting that the 37-year-old had met all requirements for reinstatement. They highlighted Warner's remorseful attitude towards the “Sandpaper Gate” incident and commended his accountability and sincerity.
The panel stated that Warner's respectful responses and expressions of remorse conveyed a genuine acknowledgement of his actions. They also noted Warner's "exemplary conduct" since the 2018 sanction, mentioning his restraint from sledging or provoking opponents, showing a significant shift in his behaviour.
Additionally, the panel highlighted their confidence that Warner would not repeat his previous conduct and that the punishment had served as an effective deterrent. Cricket Australia CEO Nick Hockley expressed support for Warner’s decision to seek a review, noting that the 2022 updates to the Code of Conduct allow a fair process for long-term sanction reviews. Hockley voiced optimism, saying Warner’s reinstatement enables him to take on leadership roles in Australian cricket this summer.