As Alex Marshall, the head of the International Cricket Council’s (ICC) anti-corruption unit (ACU), prepares to depart his post, he has issued a stern warning about the ongoing threat of corruption in cricket. Marshall, who has served as the ACU’s head for seven years, has highlighted the vulnerability of “badly run” domestic T20 leagues to corruptors seeking entry points into the game.
Marshall’s tenure has been marked by significant progress in combating corruption. He has witnessed an increase in player trust, with more players reporting approaches from corruptors. The ACU’s educational efforts have also empowered players to recognize and resist corrupt practices.
One of Marshall’s notable achievements was the investigation into corruption in Sri Lanka. The ACU’s intervention led to the country becoming the first in South Asia to criminalize match-fixing offenses. Marshall also oversaw the charging of several Sri Lankan players, including former captain Sanath Jayasuriya, for refusing to cooperate with investigations.
Other high-profile cases handled by Marshall’s ACU include the charging of Bangladesh’s Shakib Al Hasan and Zimbabwe’s Heath Streak for corruption-related offenses. Both players accepted their guilt and received sanctions.
Despite these successes, Marshall remains vigilant about the ongoing threat of corruption. He emphasizes that corruptors are constantly seeking weaknesses in the system to exploit. One such weakness, he warns, is poorly managed T20 franchise leagues that operate outside the ICC’s jurisdiction.
Marshall’s departure from the ICC marks the end of an era in the fight against corruption in cricket. However, his legacy will continue to shape the ACU’s efforts to protect the integrity of the game.
