ICC promises 'prompt and decisive action' against corruption

Cricket's world governing body has promised swift action if betting scam allegations against Pakistan were proven.

Britain's News of the World newspaper published the results of a 'sting operation' last Sunday which appeared to show how an alleged fixer had been able to ensure the deliberate bowling of no-balls by Pakistan's Mohammad Aamer and Mohammad Asif during the fourth Test against England at Lord's.

The News of the World claimed last Sunday it had paid Mazhar Majeed 150,000 pounds (230,000 dollars, 185,000 euros) for advance details of three Pakistan no-balls as part of a sting.

Majeed, a 35-year-old agent for several Pakistan players, was arrested by police on suspicion of conspiracy to defraud bookmakers following the report but was released on bail late last Sunday.

Scotland Yard questioned Pakistan captain Salman Butt and wicketkeeper Kamran Akmal plus star strike bowlers Aamer and Asif.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) said corruption would not be tolerated and anyone found guilty of "spot-fixing" would be punished as the allegations of bowling pre-arranged no-balls engulfed top Pakistan players.

ICC chief executive Haroon Lorgat said that they were conducting their own inquiry and would take action against any guilty players.

The ICC had a "zero-tolerance approach to corruption in cricket", he said in a statement Monday.

"The integrity of the game is of paramount importance.

"Prompt and decisive action will be taken against those who seek to harm it.

"We will not tolerate corruption in this great game."

Lorgat said the game should not be brought to a standstill by the actions of a few players.

He said: "We've got to keep things in perspective. It would be unfair if a couple of unsavoury individuals tarnished the reputation of the rest of the team and certainly Pakistan as a country."