Match-fixing scandal: Angelo Mathews records statement, wants cricket clean

Colombo: Sri Lankan skipper Angelo Mathews, who appeared before police to record his statement in connection with a match-fixing scandal on Tuesday, wants the game of cricket to be protected from evils like match-fixing.

After appearing before the Financial Crime Investigations Division (FCID), the captain stated that: “I answered all their questions honestly to help them in their investigation.”

The all-rounder also clarified that the investigation was regarding the bookie approach, which his team-mates duly reported.

On Monday, the Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) suspended coach Anusha Samaranayake and bowler Gayan Wishwajith with immediate effect after allegations of match fixing against the duo surfaced in the local media.

Wishwajith and Samaranayake have been under scanner ever since it was disclosed that the national team cricketers Rangana Herath and Kusal Janith Perera had reported an alleged approach by bookies ahead of the Test match against West Indies in Galle, last year.

The duo is subject to an investigation after claims emerged of them having links with bookmakers.