Fixing claim hits BPL before launch

Mortaza reveals approach made by player.

DHAKA: Bangladesh’s inaugural Twenty20 league opened on a sour note when a leading player revealed he had received a spot-fixing proposition.

Former Bangladesh captain Mashrafe Mortaza said he had been approached by an unnamed player regarding potential spot-fixing when he turns out as skipper of the Dhaka Gladiators in the Bangladesh Premier League.

“I have told my team management about the approach and I’m sure they will do the right thing,” Mortaza told ESPNcricinfo. The Bangladesh Cricket Board also confirmed the report.

Mortaza was asked to provide information on whether he would play certain matches and even whether he would be wearing his sunglasses or a cap when he takes the field. In exchange, he was told, he would be paid 15-20 per cent of the earnings from the spot-betting.

Published in The Express Tribune, February 10^th, 2012.