Pakistan cleared after investigation into possible match-fixing

Anti corruption unit (ACU) officials are satisfied that Pakistan did not 'throw' the opening match of the ICC Champions Trophy according to ICC sources.

Pakistan's crushing defeat against Sri Lanka last Thursday had attracted the suspicion of the ACU, forcing detailed examination of the videotapes.

In particular, the ACU were believed to be examining the dismissal of Yousuf Youhana, who was run out without scoring after Saeed Anwar refused a quick single. "The matter is over and Pakistan does not have to worry about anything," said an ICC spokesman, adding that the Pakistani management had been informed.

The news will be a relief for a Pakistan team already in crisis after the sacking of coach Mudassar Nazar and the non-availability of key players for the forthcoming Test series against Australia.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) had reacted angrily to the allegations when they first surfaced in an Indian newspaper, describing them as "baseless and ridiculous".

However, Yawar Saeed, Pakistan's team manager, was more measured on Tuesday: "I was given a copy of the ICC statement issued on Monday and was told there was nothing to worry about. The matter is finished."

The ICC has increased security at the event as they look to wipe out match-fixing. There are four security managers at the tournament, video surveillance is being widely used and the players' telephone calls are being monitored

An ICC statement quoted Lord Condon, the head of the ACU: "The role of the ACU at this tournament is to provide all players and teams with an effective anti-corruption infrastructure. That will include detailed monitoring of all matches, including, when appropriate, reviewing any incidents that take place during matches that may look unusual."