Want to preserve sanctity of cricket: Sharad Pawar

New Delhi : International Cricket Council (ICC) president Sharad Pawar said that the santernationalnctity of cricket must be preserved after a meeting with Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Ijaz Butt here on Thursday.

“Had a good meeting with Pakistan Cricket Board chief Ijaz Butt, PCB and ICC agree sanctity of cricket must be preserved. ICC will take ruthless action if spot-fixing are proved, charges of spot-fixing yet to be authenticated by Scotland Yard,” Pawar said.

Pakistan players Mohammad Aamer, Mohammad Asif and Salman Butt have written to the ICC saying they would defend themselves over disciplinary action against them, their lawyers confirmed this week.

“Reports of Mohammad Amir turning ICC informant are untrue but PCB has promised full cooperation to Scotland Yard,” Pawar said.

Pawar rubbished any conspiracy theory involving India. “India has no role in the entire drama,” he said.

Butt also said that he did not believe in any conspiracy theory.

“I don’t believe in any conspiracy theory. I am a businessman and a cricket administrator.”

The PCB chairman also said Pakistan wants the resumption of cricketing ties with India.

“I expressed my desire to Sharad Pawar that India should come and play in Pakistan,” said Butt.

Pawar said: “I will be happy if Pakistan get to play more international matches,” he said.

Butt also assured that the PCB will not interfere in the investigations of the ICC or the Scotland Yard

“The players’ issue was discussed. Unless the investigation is complete, we will not comment on the matter. As far as I know, the players cannot play unless their suspension is lifted. We are not upset with the ICC.

“If the players, including Aamer, are found guilty, we wont tolerate any corruption. I am part of the ICC and will stick by its Code of Conduct,” he said.