In India, the ACU worked closely with the CBI to assess the strength of evidence against 15 international cricketers named in the Bureau’s report into match fixing and related malpractices.

Two main conclusions have been reached from these discussions. Firstly, that the CBI has reported, but not investigated, the allegations made against overseas (non-Indian) players, as it was not in its jurisdiction to do so. Therefore the ACU will undertake the extremely detailed and complex investigations needed to test these allegations.

The nature of this work means that the process will take a number of weeks to complete. A report will then be submitted to the chairman of the ICC Code of Conduct Commission, Lord Griffiths.

The second conclusion drawn is that there is no recommendation from the ACU, at the present time, for any ICC member Board to change the decisions reached on the participation of players currently involved in international fixtures.

“ACU investigators held very constructive talks with the CBI. From these it is clear that the bulk of the Bureau’s effort has concentrated on Indian players and that a substantial amount of work is now needed to follow up allegations made against other players named,” commented Sir Paul Condon, director of the ACU.

The ACU has no plans to interview any of the players named by the CBI until further evidence is gathered. This is normal investigative procedure.

In South Africa the ACU met with Hansie Cronje and his legal representatives. The purpose of the talks was to gather information for the preparation of recommendations to assist cricketers avoid being drawn into malpractice.

“Hansie Cronje spoke voluntarily and frankly to the ACU and was able to make a useful contribution to our work. This is consistent with our remit of helping to develop a structure that protects international cricketers from involvement in corruption in the future,” added Sir Paul.