Zimbabwe supporter banned over R127 000 spot-fixing attempt

Zimbabwe all-rounder Luke Jongwe was approached by a supporter to meet with an Indian bookmaker. Picture: Richard Wainwright/AAP via Reuters

Zimbabwe all-rounder Luke Jongwe was approached by a supporter to meet with an Indian bookmaker. Picture: Richard Wainwright/AAP via Reuters

Published Feb 18, 2023

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Harare - A Zimbabwe supporter has been banned for five years after trying to get international Luke Jongwe involved in spot-fixing, a Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC) statement said on Saturday.

Edward Mupangano, 27, was banned by the national cricket body after approaching the all-rounder in August 2022 hoping to set up a meeting with an Indian bookmaker.

The bookmaker allegedly wanted the player to bowl in a pre-arranged manner during an unnamed international match in return for a $7 000 payment, the statement said.

Jongwe reported the approach and, after a probe, Mupangano acknowledged he had violated the ZC anti-corruption code. The ban covers all ZC-affiliated cricket venues and events.

"Our view is that harsh sanctions, including custodial sentences, will go a long way in helping cricket curb one of the biggest threats to its credibility," ZC chairman Tavengwa Mukuhlani said.

Spot-fixing is defined as the action or practice of dishonestly determining the outcome of a specific part of a match or game before it is played.

AFP