Corruption in cricket is one of the biggest issues that the governing bodies have been working to eradicate. After Pakistani cricketer Umar Akmal became the latest to be suspended for failing to report an approach to do spot-fixing, the cricket world was ashamed once again over the action of one specific player. While the cricketing spectrum was discussing Umar’s wrongdoings, former Pakistan captain Saleem Malik has come to fore admitting do have done spot-fixing 19 years ago.
“I am very sorry for what I had done 19 years ago. I am ready to extend unconditional cooperation to the International Cricket Council and the Pakistan Cricket Board in this regard,” Malik said in a video message.
The 57-year-old was given a life ban in 2000 after found guilty of offering bribes to Australia’s trio of Shane Warne, Mark Waugh and Tim May in the 1994-95 series to fix the outcome of the match. Though Malik’s life ban was lifted in 2008 by the court, neither the Pakistan Cricket Board nor the International Cricket Council has reinstated his status in the cricketing spectrum.
Appealing the authorities to treat him the same way they have treated some of the other tainted Pakistani players like Mohammad Amir, Salman Butt, Mohammad Asif, Malik has asked for forgiveness and an opportunity to make his livelihood in the sport again.
