Marlon Samuels [Twitter]
In a significant development, former West Indies cricketer Marlon Samuels has been slapped with a six-year ban from all forms of cricket after being found guilty of breaching the Emirates Cricket Board (ECB) Anti-Corruption Code. The International Cricket Council (ICC), acting as the Designated Anti-Corruption Official under the ECB Code, charged Samuels with four offenses in September 2021, leading to his conviction in August this year.
The ban, effective from November 11, 2023, was confirmed by the ICC on Thursday. The charges against Samuels include failing to disclose the receipt of gifts or benefits that could bring the sport into disrepute, failure to disclose receiving hospitality valued at US $750 or more, failure to cooperate with the anti-corruption investigation, and obstructing the investigation by concealing pertinent information.
Here's what ICC HR said
“Samuels played international cricket for close to two decades, during which he participated in numerous anti-corruption sessions and knew exactly what his obligations were under the Anti-Corruption Codes."
He further said:
“Though he is retired now, Mr Samuels was a participant when the offences were committed. The ban of six years will act as a strong deterrent to any participant who intends to break the rules.”
The 42-year-old, a stalwart of West Indies cricket, featured in over 300 matches during his illustrious 18-year career, amassing 17 centuries and captaining the Caribbean side in ODIs. Notably, he played pivotal roles in the West Indies' victories in the 2012 and 2016 editions of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup, contributing significantly to the team's success.
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