Former New Zealand batsman Lou Vincent says his role in cricket match-fixing has resulted in a lifetime ban.
A veteran of 23-Tests and 102 One Day Internationals, Vincent has come clean ahead of a formal announcement by the England and Wales Cricket Board charging the 35-year-old for helping to rig English county cricket games while playing for Sussex in 2011.
“My name is Lou Vincent and I am a cheat,” he said in a statement released on Tuesday.
“I have abused my position as a professional sportsman on a number of occasions by choosing to accept money through fixing. I have lived with this dark secret for many years, but just months ago I reached the point where I decided I had to come forward and tell the truth.
“It’s a truth that has rightly caused uproar and controversy in New Zealand and around the world. I have shamed my country. I have shamed my sport. I have shamed those close to me. For that I am not proud.”
Vincent has also admitted to a role in international match-fixing between 2008 and 2012. He received a three-year ban from the Bangladesh Cricket Board last month for failing to report an approach from match fixers while playing in country’s Premier League.
A sufferer of depression, Vincent will receive a lifetime ban from the ECB later on Tuesday.
“I do suffer from depression – that is absolutely no excuse for all I’ve done wrong.
“I have kept my head down for too long now and it’s time to man up to my mistakes and today, I can stand with a better conscience because I know I am doing the right thing.
Former New Zealand cricket star Chris Cairns denied match-fixing allegations last month after being accused of cheating by Vincent and former Indian Premier League chairman Lalit Modi.
Photo: Alexander Joe/Getty Images
