In a significant crackdown on corruption, Cricket Australia (CA) has imposed a 20-year ban on former Sri Lanka Test cricketer, Dilhara Lokuhettige, for his involvement in match-fixing.
Background:
Lokuhettige, a 40-year-old fast bowler, played nine Tests and 12 ODIs for Sri Lanka between 2005 and 2013. He was previously charged by the International Cricket Council (ICC) under the ICC Anti-Corruption Code in 2018.
Charges and Ban:
CA’s investigation found Lokuhettige guilty of:
- Bribery: Soliciting, inducing, enticing, or encouraging a player to engage in corrupt conduct.
- Misconduct: Failing to disclose information about corrupt approaches.
- Corruption: Participating in corrupt conduct, including match-fixing.
The 20-year ban, effective immediately, prohibits Lokuhettige from:
- Participating in any cricket-related activity.
- Holding any cricket-related position.
- Entering any cricket stadium or facility.
Investigation Details:
The ICC’s Anti-Corruption Unit (ACU) and CA’s Integrity Unit collaborated on the investigation, which centered on Lokuhettige’s involvement in corrupt activities during the 2017 Sri Lanka Cricket T20 League.
CA’s Stance:
CA’s Integrity Manager, Sean Carroll, emphasized:
“Cricket Australia takes a zero-tolerance approach to corruption and will continue to work tirelessly with the ICC and other agencies to ensure the integrity of our sport.”
ICC’s Support:
ICC General Manager – Integrity, Alex Marshall, stated:
“The ICC ACU will continue to work closely with member boards to root out corruption and ensure players, officials, and coaches understand the risks and consequences of involvement.”
Consequences for Lokuhettige:
The ban effectively ends Lokuhettige’s cricket career and:
- Damages his reputation.
- Denies him potential coaching or mentoring opportunities.
- Sets a precedent for severe penalties against corrupt players.
Message to Players:
This ban serves as a strong warning to players:
- Corruption will not be tolerated.
- Severe penalties will be imposed.
- Integrity and fair play are paramount.
Global Impact:
This decision reinforces the cricket community’s commitment to combating corruption and ensuring the sport’s integrity.
Timeline:
- 2017: Lokuhettige allegedly involved in corrupt activities during Sri Lanka Cricket T20 League.
- 2018: ICC charges Lokuhettige under Anti-Corruption Code.
- 2023: CA imposes 20-year ban.
The ban on Dilhara Lokuhettige demonstrates cricket’s governing bodies’ resolve to eradicate corruption and protect the sport’s integrity.
