Jayasuriya’s defence: I’m man of integrity, can’t say more now

Colombo, October 16 

Former Sri Lanka captain and selector Sanath Jayasuriya said he has always acted with integrity and transparency, a day after he was charged with two counts of breaching the International Cricket Council’s (ICC) anti-corruption code. The sport’s world governing body said in a statement on Monday that the former opening batsman had refused to cooperate with an investigation conducted by the ICC anti-corruption unit (ACU). “The contents of the letter which has been released to the media has caused a lot of speculation among the cricket loving public, both domestically and internationally,” Jayasuriya said in a statement on Tuesday. “Unfortunately, I am not in a position to release any comments at this moment as I am initially required to submit my response within 14 days.”

“I am under strict legal advice that no comment is to be made in respect of the above charges as such a course would offend the ICC rules,” said the former Sri Lankan skipper. 

The 49-year-old Jayasuriya, a member of Sri Lanka’s 1996 World Cup-winning team and the fourth highest run-scorer in ODIs, was also charged with trying to conceal, destroy or tamper with evidence that could be crucial to anti-corruption investigation.

“I have always conducted myself with integrity and transparency with matters concerning the sport and I will continue to do so,” Jayasuriya said. — Reuters