ICC seeks WICB inquiry into Samuels matter

The ICC has asked the West Indies board (WICB) to investigate the alleged bookie connections against allrounder Marlon Samuels, which were raised by the police on West Indies' tour of India in February 2007.

After receiving a report from its anti-corruption and security unit, the ICC asked the WICB to submit the results of its investigations by January 31, 2008. The ICC said that the report contained allegations that Samuels indulged in "inappropriate activity" and behaved in a manner that was "prejudicial to the interests of the game of cricket".

On February 7, the Nagpur police had charged Samuels with sending team information to Mukesh Kochar, an alleged bookie, on the eve of the first one-dayer in Nagpur on January 21. At the time, Samuels defended himself and said he had known the man for many years and he was a family friend. The ICC allowed Samuels to take part in the World Cup and beyond, pending a final assessment.

Julian Hunte, the WICB president, told the Daily Nation that the board would have to look at the matter very closely, as it was a delicate issue. The WICB will submit its report to an official enquiry, comprising Code Of Conduct commission Michael Beloff, QC, and two other Code Of Conduct panel members not connected with West Indies cricket.