Cricket South Africa spokesperson Koketso Gaofetoge has confirmed that two men, arrested at Kingmead during Friday’s Mzansi Super League fixture between the Durban Heat and Jozi Stars, are listed among the International Cricket Council’s alleged match-fixers.
The men are banned from attending any cricket matches, anywhere. According to attorney Roy Singh, the 34- and 35-year-old from London were in South Africa for business – and later holiday.
‘The protocols included the sighting of any person deemed to be engaging in betting activities or the facilitation of betting activities within stadiums. Such persons will be removed from the stadium and face possible arrest,’ said CSA chief executive officer Thabang Moroe.
‘With the use of enhanced technology, match-fixers are using people posing as fans in the stadium to relay live data to illegal betting houses functioning abroad. To prevent such activities, we have strengthened our in-stadium monitoring and protection capabilities, including the active surveillance of crowd activities.
‘Cricket-loving fans will recognise the risk that corrupt activities present to the game. We call on all fans to assist us in reporting any “live” betting-related activities from any viewing areas within the stadium so that these can be monitored and addressed.’
Lieutenant Colonel Thulani Zwane stated the men were released on R500 bail. A court date has not been confirmed yet.
Photo: Pixabay