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28 March 2024

ICC promises 'decisive action' against corrupt players

ICC chief executive Haroon Lorgats says they have a zero-tolerance approach to corruption in cricket. (GETTY)

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By Staff

Pakistan’s cricketers at the centre of ‘spot-fixing’ allegations have been warned by the International Cricket Council (ICC), the sport’s governing body, of prompt and decisive action if they are found guilty.

ICC Chief Executive Haroon Lorgat issuing a statement from its Dubai headquarters in the light of the ongoing investigation into allegations of corruption during the England v Pakistan Test match at Lord’s, said they are committed to a zero-tolerance approach to corruption in cricket.
“The integrity of the game is of paramount importance. Prompt and decisive action will be taken against those who seek to harm it,” Lorgat said.
“However, the facts must first be established through a thorough investigation and it is important to respect the right of due process when addressing serious allegations of this sort.
“Make no mistake – once the process is complete, if any players are found to be guilty, the ICC will ensure that the appropriate punishment is handed out. We will not tolerate corruption in this great game.”
Pakistan are due to play against Somerset on Thursday and against England in a Twenty20 international on Sunday.
But there has been a cloud on the remainder of the tour following allegations in the News of the World that seven members of the team including captain Salman Butt, wicketkeeper Kamran Akmal and star bowlers Mohammad Asif an Mohammad Aamer were involved with illegal betting syndicates.
Lorgat detailed the ICC stance following talks with top officials from the England and Pakistan camps.
Lorgat said: “The International Cricket Council (ICC), England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) and Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) are committed to a zero-tolerance approach to corruption in cricket.
“All allegations of betting irregularities or fixing of matches or incidents within matches are investigated thoroughly by the ICC’s internationally respected Anti-Corruption and Security Unit (ACSU) and this case is no different.
“Currently, senior ACSU investigators are in the United Kingdom conducting enquiries into the allegations directed at some Pakistan players during the recently concluded Test against England at Lord’s.
“That investigation has the full support and co-operation of the ECB and PCB. In addition, ACSU officials are assisting London’s Metropolitan Police with their criminal investigation.
“Led by Sir Ronnie Flanagan, the ACSU is the most respected and experienced such unit in world sport and it has at its disposal a robust and far-reaching Anti-Corruption Code that all ICC Members support and are bound by.”