Threat of match-fixing in Pakistan test series: Condon

England and Pakistan have been put on full alert over attempts by bookmakers to fix the current test series.

International Cricket Council (ICC) anti-corruption unit chief Sir Paul Condon warned senior officials from both countries of a "potential threat by known corruptors".

In a statement published in Sunday's News of the World, Condon said: "The ICC Anti-Corruption Unit confirms it has briefed senior officials of the English and Pakistan Cricket Boards on a potential threat by known corruptors to influence the series between the two sides.

"In the interests of confidentiality it is not possible to say more at present.

"However, the information we have received demands we take this potential threat seriously, which is why the English Cricket Board (ECB) and the Pakistan Cricket Board were advised of the situation."

England won the first test at Lord's by an innings and nine runs within three days after the opening day was washed out completely.

The second and final test, currently taking place at Old Trafford, is evenly poised going into the fourth day's play on Sunday. The ECB confirmed they had received the warning. A spokesman said: "The ECB were informed by the Anti-Corruption Unit of a possible threat to influence the outcome of the first test against Pakistan.

"As a result, all the England players were reminded of the need for ever-present vigilance and to report any suspicious approaches to the management."

Former London metropolitan police chief Condon's report into corruption, published in May, said match-fixing was still a problem in the game.

He said corrupt practices and deliberate under-performing had permeated throughout cricket.

Pakistan's Waqar Younis celebrates with team mates after taking the wicket of England's Michael Atherton during the second test at Old Trafford on June 1, 2001. England and Pakistan have been put on full alert over attempts by bookmakers to fix the current test series.

Mail Cricket Editor