ICC Verdict: ‘Sanctions to act as strong deterrent’

ICC Chief Executive Haroon Lorgat has commended the tribunal for its decision and hoped the findings and sanctions will send out a strong message to the other players. “From the very moment we became aware of the spot-fixing allegations made by the News of The World, the ICC left no stone unturned in pursuing this matter and we are therefore pleased with the outcome.

“While I’m deeply saddened that this case happened in the first place, I acknowledge and commend the decision to deliver lengthy bans to all three players.”

Lorgat said that corruption will not be tolerated as the ICC adopts a zero-tolerance approach on the issue. The ICC chief executive said that the sport’s governing body also acknowledged the Crown Prosecution Service’s decision to charge the players with criminal offences in the UK.

Published in The Express Tribune, February 7^th, 2011.