Cronje verdict vindicates tought line on corruptors says ICC

The ICC has welcomed today's judgement by Justice Frank Kirk-Cohen, that the life ban imposed on Hansie Cronje from playing and coaching at first class and international level; has been endorsed and upheld.

"Eradication of corruption remains the ICC's single highest priority and the penalties imposed on those proven to have been involved must serve as a warning and a deterrent to others who might be tempted. Any other verdict would have sent the wrong message to cricket and its followers around the world," said ICC President Malcolm Gray speaking from Malaysia, where he is chairing a meeting of the ICC's Executive Board.

Gray went further in adding: "It is bitterly disappointing that cheats turn to legal proceedings in an attempt to get their own way. It is extremely pleasing that in this case justice has been seen to be done".

By his own admission, Hansie Cronje received money from bookmakers for personal gain and to influence international cricket matches. He also attempted to use his position of authority and respect to coerce members of his team to under-perform, assisting bookmakers to capitalise financially from the game. This was, and remains, completely unacceptable behaviour and the decision of the Judge is welcomed by the ICC.

The ICC Executive Board meets in Kuala Lumpur tomorrow (Thursday), when the judgement will be discussed in detail. It is highly likely that it will then be referred to the ICC Code of Conduct Commission for its assessment, response and recommendations.

Media contacts:

In Malaysia: Mark Harrison,
ICC Communications Manager
Mobile: 00 44 (0) 787 944 1891
Room 2202, Mandarin Oriental Hotel: + 603 380 8888

In the UK: Jonathan Hemus
Countrywide Porter Novelli
Tel: 00 44 (0) 1295 224478
Mobile: 00 44 (0) 7720 277180