Ashes 2017-18: Perth Test under the scanner after reports of spot fixing surfaces the media

The third Ashes Test, scheduled to be played at Perth, has come under the scanner for spot fixing allegations. The recent reports in The Sun claimed that the spot-fixers have set their eyes on the Test. They claimed that certain periods of the game have already been fixed. Reportedly, The Sun noted that there are two Indian bookies who are ready to give away the details of the rigged periods of play.

The reports suggest that the bookies “asked for up to GBP 140,000 to “spot fix” markets such as the exact amount of runs scored in an over.” The International Cricket Council (ICC) is taken aback by the sting operation. The ICC’s general manager of anti corruption, Alex Marshall, asserted that the ICC has a stern stance when it comes to spot fixing.

He added the reports they received from The Sun do not have any evidence of corruption. However, he mentioned that the ICC will look into the matter and assess whether the Perth Test has actually been rigged already.

“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,” he quoted.

“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,” he added further.

Furthermore, the reports suggest that the bookie who is the mastermind behind these spot fixing cases in Australia is known as ‘The Silent Man’. This bookie claims to have worked with several international players including a ‘World Cup winning all-rounder’. In the video sting operation, the bookie is seen mentioning that he can give details about the sessions in the Perth Test and how the play will progress.

“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.

How to detect whether the game is rigged

The bookies were then asked how will they know if the news about the fix is certain. They responded by quoting that the rigged players will give away signs like changing of gloves or removing helmets to indicate that fixing is on. There would be spotters in the crowd who would then communicate the news to the bookies, who subsequently place bets. In addition to the Perth Test, the bookies claim to have an influence on the Big Bash League, the Indian Premier League, and the Zimbabwe T20 League.

Reactions from ECB, CA

Both the involved cricket boards, ECB and the CA, expressed that they have no tolerance for such activities. They affirmed that they will give their full cooperation to the ICC in regard to any investigations surrounding the Perth Test.

“Cricket Australia takes a zero-tolerance approach against anybody trying to bring the game into disrepute. 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,” CA Spokesperson quoted.

An ECB spokesperson mentioned: “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.”