Marlon Samuels slapped with six-year ban for breaching anti-corruption code

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has slapped former West Indies international Marlon Samuels with a six-year ban across all cricket after the 42-year-old was found guilty of breaching the Emirates Cricket Board (ECB) Anti-Corruption Code.

After being charged by the ICC on a total of four charges in September 2021, Samuels was found guilty of the said offences in August this year. 

Samuels’ ban, the ICC confirmed, will commence from November 11 2023.

“Samuels played international cricket for close to two decades, during which he participated in numerous anti-corruption sessions and knew exactly what his obligations were under the Anti-Corruption Codes," Alex Marshall, who heads up the ICC HR and Integrity Unit, said on Thursday.

“Though he is retired now, Mr Samuels was a participant when the offences were committed. The ban of six years will act as a strong deterrent to any participant who intends to break the rules.”

Samuels has not played any professional cricket since 2018 but the ban will prevent him from being involved in the sport in any capacity (whether it be player / coach / support staff). 

Below are the charges for which Samuels was found guilty

Article 2.4.2 (by a majority decision) – Failing to disclose to the Designated Anti-Corruption Official, the receipt of any gift, payment, hospitality or other benefit that was made or given in circumstances that could bring the Participant or the sport of cricket into disrepute.

Article 2.4.3 (unanimous decision)- Failing to disclose to the Designated Anti-Corruption Official receipt of hospitality with a value of US $750 or more.

Article 2.4.6 (unanimous decision) – Failing to cooperate with the Designated Anti-Corruption Official’s investigation.

Article 2.4.7 (unanimous decision) – Obstructing or delaying the Designated Anti-Corruption Official’s investigation by concealing information that may have been relevant to the investigation.