csconstantine.com

{ 1:57pm UK, Sunday February 06, 2011

Ian Dovaston, sports correspondent, in Doha

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Despite claims to the contrary, the ICC's chief executive maintained the punishments meted out to Mohammad Amir, Mohammad Asif and Salman Butt were "not lenient by any stretch of the imagination".

Mr Lorgat told a press conference in Doha he felt "sadness that we had to go through such an ordeal" but was "satisfied that the sanctions are severe enough".

Amir, 18, was banned from playing for five years, while 26-year-old former captain Salman Butt was banned given 10 years with five suspended. Mohammad Asif, 28, was given seven years with two suspended.

The sentences were imposed by an independent panel after the trio were found guilty of spot-fixing during the fourth Test against England at Lord's last August.

Amir throws a `no-ball` during fourth Test against England (Pic: Sky Sports)

"I believe the sanctions are appropriate," said Mr Lorgat, adding: "We worked extremely hard for the past six months and are pleased to close it before our World Cup."

Earlier one of the judging panel, Sharad Rao, told Sky News: "You are to look at it in light of the fact that it's not a match-fixing, it's a spot-fixing which does not actually affect the results at all."

Mr Lorgat agreed with that sentiment and suggested that 'zero tolerance' did not necessarily mean life bans from the sport.

He believes after initially being tarnished, the reputation of cricket had improved because of the speed of the ICC's response. He does not believe fixing is widespread.

Given he is now 28, fast bowler Asif may never play for his country again

"We've demonstrated that we will do everything that we need to do to ensure that the sport is free of corruption," he said.

The organisation has yet to receive the detailed judgment from the panel, which may suggest a reduction of the minimum sanction for spot-fixing from five years.

"Whatever learning and recommendations come out, we will consider it," said Mr Lorgat.

Meanwhile, Amir, in an interview with Pakistan's Geo TV, said Saturday was "the saddest day of my life". He continues to maintain his innocence.

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Labels: Backed, Chief, Cricket, SpotFixing