South Africa seek speedy resolution of Gibbs's case

As Herschelle Gibbs prepares to face Delhi Police's questioning in connection with match-fixing allegations, South Africa have sought early disposal of the case, saying a 'sword' should not hang over the cricketer's head indefinitely.

"It is a matter of Delhi Police and we as government would not want to interfere a great deal in the legitimate legal process," Francis Moloi, South African High Commissioner, told PTI regarding the questioning of Gibbs when he comes to India next month to play in the Champions Trophy. "However, we would want processes like these to have some form of finality," he said, stressing on the need for an expeditious conclusion of the case.

"Frankly, we can't have this issue hanging like a sword for a long time. Speedy resolution of the issue will be most welcome so that we get on with the business of cricket which people of India love a great deal," Moloi added.

Delhi Police in 2000 claimed to have uncovered a match-fixing racket involving top players, including the then South Africa cricket captain, the late Hansie Cronje, as well as Nicky Boje and Gibbs.

Boje and Gibbs have so far not been questioned as they have avoided visiting India. Delhi Police has maintained that their quizzing is essential in the case. On his part, Moloi said South Africa respect the legal processes in India and feels that "whatever is there must be laid on the table".

Gibbs, who will tour India with his lawyer, will not come with the team but will join his team-mates a few days later. He is likely to leave for India from South Africa on October 11 and be questioned on October 12 and 14 by the Delhi Police, according to cricket officials in South Africa. He has previously opted out of two tours of India, in 2004 and 2005.