West Indies Cricketer Devon Thomas Banned for Five Years by ICC for Match-Fixing Involvement

In a shocking turn of events, West Indies wicketkeeper-batter Devon Thomas has been handed a five-year ban by the International Cricket Council (ICC) for his involvement in match-fixing across multiple cricket leagues. The 34-year-old cricketer has admitted to violating seven anti-corruption codes within the Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC), Emirates Cricket Board (ECB), and the Caribbean Premier League (CPL).

Thomas’ ban, which has been retroactively set to commence from May 23, 2023, will see him out of all forms of cricket until May 24, 2028, when he will be 38 years old. This ban serves as a stern warning to players and corrupters that attempts to manipulate the sport will not be tolerated.

ICC’s General Manager, Alex Marshall, expressed disappointment in Thomas’ actions, stating, “Having played both international and professional domestic/franchise cricket, Devon attended numerous anti-corruption education sessions. He therefore knew what his obligations were under the Anti-Corruption Codes but failed to meet these obligations across three different franchise leagues.”

Hailing from Antigua, Thomas has represented the West Indies in one Test, 21 ODIs, and 12 T20Is. Despite his experience, he has been found guilty of breaching various anti-corruption codes in the Lanka Premier League, Abu Dhabi T10 League, and Caribbean Premier League.

The specific codes Thomas breached include engaging in match-fixing agreements, failing to disclose corrupt approaches, refusing to cooperate with investigations, and obstructing anti-corruption officials. This ban serves as a reminder of the ICC’s commitment to maintaining the integrity of the sport and punishing those who seek to undermine it.