Chris Cairns and Lou Vincent under investigation for match-fixing

Troubled times for Chris Cairns

New Zealand cricket is on the verge of some startling revelations after it was confirmed that ICC and its Anti-Corruption and Security Unit (ACSU) have been investigating match-fixing and spot-fixing by some ex-New Zealand cricketers since the past four months.

Chris Cairns and Lou Vincent have been confirmed as two of the cricketers involved. The third one is rumoured to be Daryl Tuffey.

New Zealand Herald, a leading New Zealand newspaper, had claimed that up to three former Kiwi cricketers were under the probe for match-fixing. The report says that none of the cricketers are currently active.

ICC later confirmed in a press release that investigations have indeed been going on since the past few months, but refused to comment further for obvious reasons. Here’s the full statement by ICC:

Following the publication of an article in a leading New Zealand newspaper earlier today in which it is alleged that a small number of former New Zealand cricketers had engaged in fixing activity in historic cricket matches and were being investigated by the ICC’s Anti-Corruption and Security Unit (ACSU), the ICC confirms that it has indeed been working closely over the past few months with its colleagues in the domestic anti-corruption units of Member Boards to investigate these and related matters.

The ICC and all of its Members maintain a zero-tolerance attitude towards corruption in the sport, and the ACSU will continue to collaborate with relevant individuals in order to complete its investigation process.

Naturally, as the investigation remains ongoing and nobody has been charged with any offence, no further comment will be made by the ICC or by NZC.

Commenting on the issue, New Zealand Cricket chief executive David White said, “It’s a difficult situation. New Zealand Cricket is aware the ICC is investigating some former New Zealand cricketers.”

As late as last week, the New Zealand government had pushed for more information to be shared, and more coordination between government and sports organisations for tackling corruption in sport. There have also been plans to bring anti-corruption legislation next year.

When asked to comment on the issue, Cairns said: “We need to let the investigation by the ICC run its course.”

Vincent, on the other hand, released a statement which stated: “This investigation is bound by a number of rules and regulations that mean I am unable to make any further public comment.”

The New Zealand cricket team is currently playing a Test series at home against West Indies.