Steve Waugh calls for lie detector tests to end 'scourge' of fixing, betting in cricket

Former Australian captain Steve Waugh has called for the introduction of lie detector tests in cricket, saying that such tests would solve international cricket's integrity crisis.

According to News.com.au, Waugh, who retired from Test cricket in 2004, has used his place on the Marylebone Cricket Club's World Cricket Committee to push anti-corruption measures and has even gone to the point of sitting in a test himself to prove its validity.

In his new book 'The Meaning of Luck', Waugh called for the use of polygraphs to eradicate crimes like gambling and match-fixing, which according to him are the greatest issues facing the sport, adding that such problems cannot be dismissed lightly.

Stating that a player would not be afraid to take such tests if he is innocent, Waugh said that in fact, the tests will be a avenue for the player to clear his name if he has been accused wrongly, adding that such tests can also break open cases, if the lie detector itself or the mere threat of its use led to dishonest players confessing out of fear.

According to Waugh, he is 'sick' of 'cynics second-guessing every dropped catch, poor shot, wide delivery', adding that cricket must act to avoid the confidence crises engulfing other sports, such as cycling.

Waugh also highlighted the susceptibility of developing Twenty20 tournaments as a potential weak spot, saying that there were 'opportunities' for corrupt bookmakers, especially in second-tier tournaments such as domestic T20 competitions and other events away from media and match officials' attention.

However, Waugh insisted that it is important that cricket authorities sit up and take action, saying that he believes that they must explore every avenue available to reduce and end the 'scourge'.

Waugh also said that although a solution will be very costly and will require courageous people to oversee its implementation, it however, needs to be done.