During his farewell from the world stage at June’s T20 World Cup in the Carribean, Warner told travelling reporters that, “Coming back since 2018 I’ve probably … been the only one that’s ever copped a lot of flak.

“Whether it’s people who don’t like the Australian cricket team or don’t like me, I’ve always been that person who has copped it … I think it’s going to be inevitable that when people talk about me in 20 or 30 years’ time, there will always be that sandpaper scandal”.

Warner captained the Thunder before his leadership ban was imposed and was joined at his hearing by Copeland, a long-time NSW teammate.

“There has been a real shift in Dave, his demeanour, how he carries himself,” Copeland told the panel in a transcript of the hearing published by Cricket Australia.

“It’s had a profound impact on him and certain behaviours, if you will, prior to 2018 that Dave was referencing, and … the sledging or the other things that might come naturally to professional cricket, there’s been a real line in the sand that just does not appear any more with David Warner on a cricket field.”

Loading

Cummins and Australian coach Andrew McDonald both provided written references in support of Warner’s appeal, along with ex-Test batter Greg Chappell and New Zealand’s Kane Williamson, who has played against him at international level and alongside him in the IPL.

Cricket Australia chief executive Nick Hockley said Warner deserved another chance at captaining or holding a leadership position following an overhauled code of conduct review process instigated by the Sandpaper-gate fall-out.

“In 2022 we updated the code of conduct to ensure there was a fair and rigorous process in place for all players and player support personnel to have long-term sanctions reviewed,” Hockley said.

“I am pleased David has chosen to have his sanction reviewed and that he will be eligible to take up leadership positions in Australian cricket this summer.”

News, results and expert analysis from the weekend of sport sent every Monday. Sign up for our Sport newsletter.