Date:14/05/2008 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2008/05/14/stories/2008051456631900.htm

Sport - Cricket

Samuels banned for two years

DUBAI: West Indies batsman Marlon Samuels was banned from cricket for two years on Tuesday for breaking rules intended to prevent players from betting on matches.

The International Cricket Council confirmed the automatic ban after receiving the judgment by the West Indies Cricket Board’s disciplinary committee.

Samuels was allegedly recorded by Indian police as he passed on information to an Indian bookmaker during West Indies’ one-day series in the country.

The 27-year-old Samuels was banned from May 9, 2008.

“Corruption is a serious matter,” acting ICC chief executive David Richardson said. “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. We hope the case serves as a reminder to players and officials to remain vigilant.” — AP