Statement from Minister of Sport Ngconde Balfour

STATEMENT ISSUED BY THE MINISTER OF SPORT AND RECREATION, NGCONDE BALFOUR, ON RECEIVING THE INTERIM REPORT OF THE COMMISSION OF INQUIRY INTO CRICKET MATCH FIXING AND RELATED MATTERS

With regard to the Terms of Reference of the Commission of Inquiry into Cricket Match Fixing and Related Matters, provision is made for the publication of an interim report.

The first stage of the Commission hearings ended on 27 June 2000, but the work of the Commission is still in progress. The Interim Report handed to me today by Judge EL King will be submitted to the President, in accordance with the Terms of Reference. I am not at liberty to disclose any of the contents of the report but there are some issues that need to be addressed.

,,h The commitment of the United Cricket Board of South Africa to co-operate with the Commission should never be under-estimated. It was by mutual agreement between the UCB and Government, that the Commission was instituted. The UCB is determined to ensure that all irregularities in cricket are exposed and the organisation is to be commended for its actions.

,,h The players and administrators who made submissions to the Commission and who agreed to appear at the Commission hearings are also acknowledged.

,,h I have also noted the intention of the former South African cricket captain, Hansie Cronje, to grant interviews to selected media as well as his apparent decision to write a book on his involvement in the matter. While that might be his prerogative, it should be noted that the work of the Commission has not yet been finalised.

,,h Much damage has been done to the image of cricket as well as to the reputation of the sports movement in the country, due to the actions of a few individuals. It is regrettable that cricket in general has to bear the brunt because of the greed of a few. I want to emphasise that any suggestions that cricket is corrupt and untrustworthy, is absolutely without basis. The revelations by one person must never be construed as a general position within cricket. I know that the South African public¡¦s confidence in and loyalty to cricket, has taken a major blow. My appeal to everyone is to once more put our support behind the national cricket team led by Shaun Pollock. Let all South Africans once again get behind the team.

,,h It is my hope that the investigations and findings of the Commission will serve as a catalyst for world cricket to institute similar inquiries wherever there are allegations of irregularities in the international game.

,,h The hearings of the Commission will continue on 02 October 2000, whereafter a final report will be submitted.

,,h I wish to express my appreciation to Judge King and the investigation team for the work completed thus far, including the drafting of the interim report.