Beware of corrupt approaches - ICC warns national boards

The outbreak of COVID-19 has brought the world to a complete halt. With several nations implementing the lockdown procedure to help combat the virus, social media has become an easier route for fans to connect with players.

However, the ICC Anti-Corruption unit claims that social media platforms have been quoted as having a different side. The International Cricket Council [ICC] has issued a letter to all national boards cautioning that players are approached by bookies through social media, taking into consideration that so many people are left with plenty of time during the lockdown.

"With most of the world experiencing lockdowns and restrictions, it has left many with time on their hands, some of which can be filled on social media. The creativity some have shown has been remarkable but there is a darker side. "We have seen evidence that corruptors are using their time to contact players through social media, particularly Instagram, Whatsapp and Facebook," the letter stated.

According to Cricbuzz, two players of USA senior side have been approached via social media platforms. Interestingly, it is suspected that one of the corrupters who approached the player is already on the ICC anti-corruption line of sight. A similar sequence of incident occurred in the run-up to the T20 Canada League last year. Two USA players received calls from entities who pretended to be team representatives asking them to fall in line with their demands.

[Cricbuzz inputs]