Shohely Akhter, a player from the Bangladesh women’s cricket team, has now become the first female cricketer to receive a ban for corruption, with a five-year suspension imposed on her.
The 36-year-old spinner forfeited her right to a hearing by admitting guilt to five violations of the International Cricket Council’s (ICC) anti-corruption code. She had offered a fellow Bangladesh player over $26,000 to orchestrate their dismissal by hit wicket during a T20 World Cup match in 2023.
Akhter, who has participated in two One Day Internationals and 13 T20 matches for Bangladesh, was not included in the World Cup squad and initiated contact with the player via Facebook.
Shohely Akhter BCB
The unnamed player was reportedly asked to hit their own stumps while batting during Bangladesh’s eight-wicket defeat to Australia, with Akhter claiming the funds would be sourced from her “cousin,” who was allegedly engaged in illegal gambling.
Even after encouraging her teammate to remove the messages, the contacted player chose to report Akhter to the ICC’s anti-corruption unit.
The ICC stated, “In considering all aspects of this case, including Ms Akhter’s willingness to reach a resolution that eliminates the need for a hearing, the ICC acknowledges the considerable time and resources saved in the ongoing battle against corruption.”
It further noted, “Thus, the ICC believes that a five-year period of ineligibility is just and appropriate. Ms Akhter has concurred with this decision.”
Akhter’s last appearance for the Bangladesh team was in 2022.
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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