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Life ban on players found guilty: ICC

LONDON, May 3 (Reuters) — The International Cricket Council (ICC) today said stringent penalties, up to a life ban, will be introduced for players involved in match-fixing.

Countries not complying with the new regulations will face suspension, ICC president Jagmohan Dalmiya told a news conference after a two-day emergency meeting.

“There will be a stringent penalty which may go up to life bans if anyone is found guilty of misbehaviour” Mr Dalmiya said.

Mr Dalmiya also announced the immediate establishment of an independent commission charged with investigating allegations of match-fixing — the Corruption Investigating Authority.

He said the new body would be set up within the next two months and headed by a “senior experienced person with a legal background” such as a barrister.

The new body will directly report to the Chairman of the ICC’s Code of Conduct Commission, Lord Griffiths.

“This game’s image will not be allowed to suffer for any unacceptable behaviour from any quarters,” Mr Dalmiya said.