The build-up to the third Ashes Test was overshadowed by spot-fixing claims Getty
The third Ashes Test has been mired in controversy as The Sun claimed that spot-fixers have targeted the Perth match and that they also offered to provide details regarding the rigged periods of play. The Sun reported that two Indian bookies offered to sell details of rigged periods of play and "asked for up to GBP 140,000 to "spot fix" markets such as the exact amount of runs scored in an over."
In a statement, Alex Marshall - ICC's general manager of anti corruption - said the initial assessment of the materials received from The Sun did not reveal any evidence of corruption. "We have now received all materials relating to The Sun investigation. We take the allegations extremely seriously and they will be investigated by the ICC Anti-Corruption Unit working with anti-corruption colleagues from Member countries," Chapman said
"From my initial assessment of the material, there is no evidence, either from The Sun or via our own intelligence, to suggest the current Test Match has been corrupted. At this stage of the investigation, there is no indication that any players in this Test have been in contact with the alleged fixers. The allegations are wide ranging and relate to various forms cricket in several countries, including T20 tournaments. We will look closely at all the information as part of our investigation."
According to the report, the bookies claimed to be working with a fixer in Australian cricket known as 'The Silent Man' who has worked with former and current international players, including 'a World Cup-winning all-rounder'. The bookies said they could get players to follow scripts - as to how many runs scored in a session or an innings, when a team will lose a wicket or what a team would do after winning the toss.
"I will give you work in Ashes Test. Session runs. Maybe day one, two, three. We have two session work, one session costs 60 lakh rupees (GBP 69,000), two sessions 120 lakh rupees (138,000)," the bookie claimed in the sting video, adding that such information would be a big help while placing bets. Later, confirming that the fix was in place, the bookie sought advance money and said information would be provided after the toss.
When asked about the reliability of the information and its provider, the bookies said he was a legitimate source. They also explained how the fix works - a corrupt cricketer would signal that the fix is on by making gestures like changing the gloves, removing a helmet or bowlers wearing long sleeves. Spotters in the crowd would notice the gesture and communicate it to the bookies, who would then place bets accordingly, having determined the outcome of the said fix beforehand.
According to The Sun, the bookies also claimed that they could carry out fixing activities in the Big Bash League and the Indian Premier League, and also recommended splurging money on a new Zimbabwe League which was under their influence.
Reacting to the claims of spot-fixing in the Ashes Test, Cricket Australia and the England and Wales Cricket Board reiterated the zero tolerance policy towards corruption and assured full cooperation to any investigation by the ICC Anti-Corruption Unit.
"Cricket Australia takes a zero-tolerance approach against anybody trying to bring the game into disrepute," a CA spokesman said. "Cricket Australia will co-operate fully with any ICC Anti-Corruption Unit investigation. Australian cricket has a long-standing, proactive approach to sports integrity management and Cricket Australia has a dedicated Anti-Corruption and Security Unit (ACSU) to prevent corruption within Australian domestic competitions, including the BBL.
"In addition to this, all players participating in CA sanctioned competitions, including the BBL, are required to complete an anti-corruption education session before they can compete. CA works closely with the ICC ACU on all international fixtures played in Australia. Players are able to report any suspicions they have on a confidential basis and in the past there has been a strong Australian player culture to do so."
An ECB spokesperson said: "ECB work closely with the ICC and their Anti-Corruption unit to protect the integrity of the international game . We are aware of these allegations and there is no suggestion that any of the England team is involved in any way."
