Dhaka, Feb 12, (V7N) –Bangladesh cricketer Shohely Akhter has been handed a five-year ban from all forms of cricket after admitting to multiple breaches of the ICC’s anti-corruption code, the governing body confirmed on Tuesday.

Akhter attempted to manipulate a Women's T20 World Cup match in 2023, offering a fellow Bangladeshi player £13,000 ($16,000) to get out hit wicket. However, the player immediately reported the incident, triggering an ICC investigation. Akhter, who was not part of the tournament squad, was subsequently charged.

The 36-year-old spinner, who last represented Bangladesh in 2022, played 13 T20Is and two ODIs. With this ban, any hopes of an international comeback are effectively over.

“The International Cricket Council (ICC) has imposed a five-year ban on Shohely Akhter after she admitted to violating five provisions of the ICC Anti-Corruption Code,” the ICC stated.

One of the most serious accusations against Akhter was her attempt to obstruct or delay the ICC’s inquiry. The governing body highlighted her lack of full cooperation during the investigation.

Bangladesh cricket has been plagued by match-fixing scandals in the past, with corruption cases affecting players across different formats. This latest incident raises renewed concerns about integrity within the women’s game.

Reinforcing its zero-tolerance stance on corruption, the ICC continues to impose strict penalties, making Akhter’s suspension a clear warning for cricketers worldwide.

END/SD/RH/