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'Sandpaper for sale': Aussies cop it on South African return

Steve Smith and David Warner knew what to expect when they returned to South Africa - the scene of the infamous 'sandpapergate' scandal.

It was Warner and Smith's first match in South Africa since the ball-tampering scandal that cast Australian cricket into turmoil in 2018.

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Plenty of focus had been on how the pair would be received at a ground notorious for its hostility towards opposition players.

While there wasn’t the same level of animosity as Smith and Warner copped during last year’s Ashes series in England, fans were quick to remind them about the scandal.

“Sandpaper for sale. Pocket-sized for extra discreetness,” was displayed across two signs being held by supporters in the crowd.

Pictured here, South African fans remind Steve Smith and David Warner about the sandpaper scandal.
South African fans couldn't resist taking a shot at Steve Smith and David Warner. Pic: Getty

The crowd didn't seem to faze Smith, who fell just short of a half century after a solid partnership with skipper Aaron Finch.

The same couldn't be said for Warner though, with the Aussie opener making just four runs.

The Wanderers had a party atmosphere from the moment Warner holed out at fine leg off the second ball from Steyn.

South Africa's champion quick roared and unleashed a trademark chainsaw celebration as Warner departed, flanked by the team security manager on the long walk back up the tunnel.

Smith's arrival was met with scattered jeers but the loudest boos were reserved for when Steyn sent down a grubber and Smith charged down the wicket to smack it away.

Australia looked set for a monster total at the famously high-scoring ground when Smith and Finch (42) piloted the tourists to 1-70 off the powerplay.

Agar makes Aussie history in big win

The real star of the show for the Aussies was Ashton Agar, with the spinner's five wicket haul guiding them to a thumping 107-run win.

The left-arm spinner snared 5-24 to become just the second Australian after Brett Lee in 2007 to deliver a hat-trick in a T20 international.

His figures at the Wanderers are the best by an Australian in the format.

Agar's spot in Australia's T20 World Cup squad later this year is now virtually assured but he had, until recently, been in and out of the white-ball sides.

The allrounder said building resilience to handle the setbacks had been challenging.

Seen here, Ashton Agar celebrates a wicket against South Africa.
Ashton Agar's five wickets guided the Aussies to a resounding win. Pic: Getty

"I think that's always the biggest challenge for someone in international cricket, when you're in and out, just to keep putting yourself out there," he said.

"You have to believe in yourself at the end of the day because you are the only person you have when you're performing out there.

"You have your teammates but only you can perform your true skill."

Agar had previously been best known for his 98 on Test debut during the 2013 Ashes but said it was hard to compare the two landmark achievements.

Having slotted in nicely to batting at No.7, Agar said he had taken the opportunity to pick the brain of his idol Jadeja after the recent ODI series in India.

"He's my favourite player in the world. I want to play cricket like he does," Agar said.

"He's an absolute rock star - smacks them, gun fielder and spins the ball. But it's just his presence when he's out there ... watching him fills me with confidence.

"I was pretty inspired by talking to him.

"I've got good people around me, I've got a wonderful fiancee, she's very supportive so I'm very lucky - and a great family. They are all able to keep me really level."

Game two of the three-match series is in Port Elizabeth on Sunday night.

With AAP