Rivalry Put Aside: What Faf du Plessis Texted Steven Smith Amid Sandpapergate Chaos

Reflecting on 2018: In a new Cricinfo video series titled Cricketers on Cricketers, Faf du Plessis reflected on the infamous 2018 Sandpapergate scandal in Cape Town, sharing details of the private support he sent to opposing captain Steven Smith amid the intense media storm.

Du Plessis' Message & Empathy

"You Did Nothing Wrong": Du Plessis recalled watching Smith step up to face the press and take full responsibility. Realizing that the heavy media backlash was disproportionate, du Plessis immediately texted Smith: "Listen, I'm so sorry you are going through this. Just be strong... we're behind you. We understand you did nothing wrong."

Shared Experience ("Mintgate"): Du Plessis drew parallels to his own 2016 ball-tampering charge in Hobart, where he was accused of using sweet residue to shine the ball. He noted how heavy the global "cheating" label weighed on a player.

Remembering Smith's Past Gesture

Reciprocating Support: Du Plessis highlighted that during his own controversy in Hobart, Smith had bucked conventional rivalry pressures by defending him in a press conference—stating that shining the ball with sweets was common practice across many teams. Du Plessis noted how much that human gesture meant to the South African dressing room at the time.

Consequences & Lighthearted Insights

The Aftermath: While Smith received a one-Test ban from the ICC, Cricket Australia handed down a much harsher year-long ban and stripped him of the captaincy.

Quirky Traits: Alongside Aaron Finch in the video series, du Plessis also shared lighter stories about Smith's intense competitiveness and quirky habits, such as sending back 29 out of 30 custom-made bats because they didn't meet his exacting standards.