Cairns demands to see match-fixing evidence
Auckland: Former New Zealand all-rounder Chris Cairns went on the front foot over ongoing match-fixing allegations on Sunday, and rounded on former teammates and high-profile officials, including the legendary Richard Hadlee. He demanded his accusers produce details of what he is alleged to have done, and expressed disappointment that the New Zealand Cricket board, of which Hadlee is a member, had apparently turned their back on him. Cairns is one of three former New Zealand players, along with Daryl Tuffey and lou Vincent, tied to an ICC match-fixing probe. But 10 weeks after the ICC confirmed the investigation, Cairns said no one had approached him. “Surely there should be some onus on the ICC or other governing bodies to come forward and present some reliable evidence to justify the investigation,” he said. “The current rumour and speculation, which has been widely reported around the world, is doing untold damage.”
Akram fined for violating traffic rules
lahore: Former Pakistani cricketer Wasim Akram has been fined Rs 500 for violating traffic rules in this eastern city, police said on Sunday. Akram was challaned for speeding near the Punjab University campus, police officials said. “Wasim was stopped by the traffic warden who told him he was speeding at 78 kmph while the speed limit in the area is 60 kmph,” an officer said. The former Test captain handed over Rs 500 without any arguments, he said. The incident came a few days after Test batsman Umar Akmal landed in the lockup for fighting with a traffic warden in lahore. Akmal, who is on bail, is facing trial with three charges filed against him, including abusing and tearing the shirt of the warden. PNS/Agencies