ICC to fully support BCCI in spot-fixing probe

The International Cricket Council (ICC) Thursday said it would provide all assistance to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) in the IPL spot-fixing case that has seen the arrest of three cricketers, including India fast bowler S. Sreesanth.

"The ICC will provide full support to the BCCI and Delhi Police in this investigation. The BCCI's decision to suspend its three cricketers on corruption charges is a clear indicator of the ICC and its Members' zero-tolerance approach," said ICC Chief Executive David Richardson.

"The ICC and its Members have collectively taken measures to tighten vigilance, strengthen our anti-corruption codes and increase player education programmes as well as offering strict penalties to those found guilty of illegal conduct.

"As such, it is disappointing to see that despite the extensive education programmes delivered by the ICC and the BCCI, there still appears to be some players who remain vulnerable to temptations. We have always maintained that the real battle is against the unscrupulous individuals who are preying on the susceptible players," he added

Y.P.Singh, head of ICC's Anti-Corruption and Security Unit (ACSU), said: "Over the last 12 months or so, we have seen far more examples of players doing the right thing and reporting approaches. This is extremely encouraging and allows us to have the confidence to believe that the vast majority of players are playing the game in the right.

"This incident emphasises the threats all players face and need for the anti-corruption units of the ICC and its Members to work even closer with the various law enforcement agencies around the world who have the necessary investigatory authority and resources. We welcome the police's involvement to root out these corrupters."

Sreesanth along with his two other Rajasthan Royals team mates Ankeet Chavan and Ajit Chandila were arrested late Wednesday night in Mumbai by the Delhi Police special cell for their alleged involvement in spot-fixing. They have been sent to five day police custody along with 11 bookies, who also have been arrested by Delhi Police from Delhi, Mumbai and Ahmedabad.