Kaneria released without charge in spot-fixing investigation

Danish Kaneria, the Pakistan legspinner, has been released without charge by police after being arrested in connection with alleged spot-fixing during an English domestic Pro40 match last season. Kaneria was arrested in May, along with Essex team-mate Mervyn Westfield, and released on bail without charge pending further inquiries.

"Essex police can confirm that a 29-year-old man from Chelmsford has been released from bail in connection with an investigation into cricket-match irregularities. A 22-year-old man, also from Chelmsford, remains on bail until 15 September," said a police statement.

It is believed the investigation centred on a Pro40 win against Durham last September and spot-betting regarding wides and no-balls bowled in the match.

Kaneria began the 2010 season as Essex's overseas player before joining the Pakistan squad, but after he was dropped following the first Test against England, at Trent Bridge, he was resigned by the county and played in the Friends Provident t20 final. However, Westfield was released by Essex last month.

Spot-fixing has hit the headlines again in recent weeks following the News of the World investigation against Pakistan which came to light during the final Test against England at Lord's. It has led to Salman Butt, Mohammad Asif and Mohammad Amir - the three players allegedly at the centre of the controversy - being suspended by ICC.