Undercover investigation exposes 'match-fixing plot' in upcoming England v Sri Lanka Test

An undercover investigation has exposed plot to fix the upcoming England cricket match against Sri Lanka in Galle later this year.

An undercover journalist, disguised as a businessman, filmed a video showcasing a match fixer conversing with the groundsman at the stadium in Galle, reported the Telegraph.

According to the British daily, the “wicket fixing plot” that the two people were seen discussing in the video involved doctoring the pitch to make it impossible for the contest to end in a draw. Such tactics would allow those involved to profit dishonestly from placing bets against that outcome with unsuspecting bookmakers.

The match fixing allegations are part of a documentary entitled ‘Cricket’s Match Fixers’ to be broadcasted by Al Jazeera tomorrow, May 27.

The footage showcases cricketer Robin Morris from Mumbai, Tharindu Mendis, a professional player from Colombo, and Tharanga Indika, a member of staff at Galle International Stadium.

In the footage, when an undercover reporter asks when the next match fixing would take place, Morris says, “England v Sri Lanka. It’s in October, England vs Sri Lanka.”

Indika was then asked if he would be able to alter the surface to make sure a draw would not be possible, he replies, “Yes I can. I can confirm it in advance one week before.”

Morris then asks the reporters for 30 percent of any winning bet abnd reveals that Indika had already doctored a pitch last July during a Test between Sri Lanka and India.

Pointing towards Indika who is the groundsman, Morris next says, “What happens is he – we – can make a pitch to do whatever we want it to do. Because he’s the main curator. He is the assistant manager and curator of the Galle stadium.

“We hit 10 bookies in one go,” he reveals.

Ever since the latest cricket corruption scandal has surfaced, ICC has started a rigorous probe into it. 

While Morris denied all allegations of match-fixing levelled against him, Mendis did not respond for comment and Indika negated claims of involvement in the matter.

On the other hand, England and Wales Cricket Board spokesman said, “ECB are aware of the planned Al Jazeera documentary, though not the full content. We endorse the ICC’s position and fully support their work and investigations.”

England are currently playing a two-match Test series against Pakistan in Lord's.