Investigation into bookmaker links

Samuels found guilty of violating ICC Code

Cricinfo staff

May 13, 2008

	Marlon Samuels has been found guilty of bringing the game into disrepute © AFP

Marlon Samuels has been found guilty by the West Indies board's disciplinary committee of breaching the ICC's Code of Conduct for "receiving money, or benefit or other reward that could bring him or the game of cricket into disrepute." The violation carries a minimum two-year ban and the WICB has passed on the committee's decision and recommendations to the ICC.

The incident occurred in in February 2007, when Samuels was allegedly caught on tape by the Indian police for passing on match-related information to an Indian bookie during West Indies' one-day series in India. Samuels denied giving out any information and the board, while supporting him, promised a transparent probe into the charges. The ICC's Anti-Corruption and Security Unit (ACU) also arrived in India for an enquiry. Samuels was allowed to play in the World Cup while investigations continued.

The ACU's report said Samuels indulged in "inappropriate activity" and behaved in a manner that was "prejudicial to the interests of the game of cricket". Following that, the ICC asked the WICB to carry out its own investigations. The ICC said it was pleased the WICB had completed the investigation, but added this should come as a warning to the game to stay vigilant.

"We are yet to see the whole judgement to put the matter of the punishment into its proper context but we note the WICB disciplinary committee found the player guilty and has imposed an immediate ban," Dave Richardson, the ICC's acting chief executive, said. "In terms of the punishment handed down, minimum penalties were agreed by the ICC Board, including all Full Members, and they reflect the seriousness of the issues at hand.

"Corruption is a serious matter, dealing with it effectively is fundamental to the integrity of our sport and this matter is a demonstration that its threat has not gone away. It is never pleasant when a player is banned but the process in arriving at this point has been an extremely thorough one and we hope the case serves as a reminder to players and officials to remain vigilant."

The disciplinary committee, which includes former West Indies captain Richie Richardson, wrote to Julian Hunte, the board president, recommending a suspended sentence on account of Samuels' good behaviour.

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Players/Umpires

Marlon Samuels

Teams

West Indies