Bangladeshi Spinner Shohaly Akhter Receives Five-Year Ban from ICC for Breaching Anti-Corruption Code
Shohaly Akhter, the talented off-spinner from Bangladesh, has found herself at the center of a controversy after admitting to breaching five provisions of the ICC anti-corruption code during the 2023 Women’s T20 World Cup held in South Africa. As a result, the International Cricket Council has handed her a five-year ban, starting from February 10, 2025.
Corrupt Approaches During Matches
According to the ICC, the charges against Akhter involved breaching Articles 2.1.1, 2.1.3, 2.1.4, 2.4.4, and 2.4.7 of the Code. The incident occurred on February 14, 2023, just before the Bangladesh v Australia match in the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup. Akhter contacted her friend and teammate, known as Player A, via Facebook Messenger, attempting to persuade her to engage in fixing matches.
Akhter offered Player A a substantial sum of money in exchange for carrying out fixes during future Bangladesh matches. The spinner claimed that her ‘cousin’ was a bettor who had requested her to speak to Player A about getting out hit wicket after a pace delivery in the upcoming match against Australia. The ICC document reveals that Akhter promised Player A a payment of 2 million Bangladesh takas for the fix, assuring her that the money would come from her ‘cousin’s’ winnings.
Rejection and Reporting
Player A promptly rejected the approach and reported the matter to the ICC’s Anti-Corruption Unit (ACU). She provided evidence in the form of voice notes sent by Akhter, which detailed the corrupt proposals. During an interview with the ACU, Akhter admitted to sending the messages but claimed that it was merely a ploy to show her friend that the Bangladesh team was not involved in fixing, rather than a genuine corrupt approach.
However, the evidence pointed to a different narrative. Akhter had fabricated messages between her and another individual, Mr. Z, to cover up her actions. Despite her initial denial, Akhter eventually confessed to her deceptive practices and involvement with Mr. Z, who she suspected of being involved in cricket corruption since 2022.
ICC Charges and Sanctions
Based on the investigations and Akhter’s admissions, the ICC levied charges against her under various Code Articles, including contriving to fix matches, offering rewards for engaging in corrupt conduct, attempting to induce others to breach anti-corruption regulations, failing to report corrupt approaches, and obstructing the ACU’s investigation through fabrications and deletions of messages.
The sanctions imposed on Akhter serve as a stern reminder of the ICC’s zero-tolerance policy towards corruption in cricket. The ban not only affects her career but also tarnishes the reputation of Bangladesh cricket. Moving forward, it is crucial for players to uphold the integrity of the game and adhere to strict anti-corruption protocols to preserve the spirit of cricket.
Impact on Bangladesh Cricket
The scandal involving Shohaly Akhter has sent shockwaves through the cricketing community in Bangladesh. As a promising young spinner, Akhter was seen as a rising star in women’s cricket and her involvement in corrupt activities has deeply disappointed fans and officials alike. The ban imposed by the ICC not only affects Akhter’s career but also reflects poorly on the integrity of the entire Bangladesh cricketing fraternity.
With the spotlight now on Bangladesh cricket, there is added pressure on the authorities to ensure that stringent measures are in place to prevent such incidents in the future. It is crucial for the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) to take proactive steps to educate players about the dangers of corruption and to reinforce the importance of upholding the values of fair play and sportsmanship.
Anti-Corruption Measures in Cricket
The case of Shohaly Akhter serves as a reminder of the ongoing battle against corruption in cricket. The ICC’s Anti-Corruption Unit plays a vital role in monitoring and investigating suspicious activities to maintain the integrity of the game. It is essential for players, officials, and stakeholders to remain vigilant and report any approaches or incidents that could compromise the fairness of cricket matches.
Cricket boards around the world have implemented various anti-corruption measures, including education programs, player workshops, and strict regulations to combat match-fixing, spot-fixing, and other corrupt practices. By promoting transparency and accountability, the cricketing community can work together to preserve the purity of the sport and protect its reputation.
Lessons for Young Cricketers
For aspiring cricketers, the case of Shohaly Akhter serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of engaging in corrupt activities. The allure of quick money and promises of fame can sometimes lead players down a dangerous path that ultimately ruins their careers and tarnishes the sport they love.
It is imperative for young cricketers to prioritize integrity, honesty, and ethics in their pursuit of excellence. By staying true to the values of cricket and upholding the principles of fair competition, players can not only safeguard their own futures but also contribute to the collective effort of maintaining the purity of the game.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the case of Shohaly Akhter highlights the challenges that cricket faces in combating corruption and upholding its integrity. While the ban imposed on Akhter may seem harsh, it sends a strong message that no form of corrupt behavior will be tolerated in the sport. As the cricketing world continues its fight against malpractices, it is essential for all stakeholders to work together towards a cleaner and more transparent future for the game we all cherish.
