The international cricket community has welcomed the lifetime ban handed down to self-confessed match-fixer Lou Vincent.
The former Black Cap has admitted to 18 charges brought forward by the England and Wales Cricket Board.
As the Black Caps celebrated a historic test series win in the West Indies, back home Vincent was finally fronting up to being a cheat.
"I have abused my position as a professional sportsman on a number of occasion by choosing to accept money in fixing."
However, this unfortunate timing didn't affect the Black Caps team.
"It's slightly disappointing," says Black Caps Jimmy Neesham. "I think it's a good thing for the game that [this] sort of stuff is coming out, but obviously the timing isn't ideal."
Among other matches Vincent, 35, admitted fixing a Twenty20 game against England three years ago.
He is now banned from playing, coaching or participating in any form of cricket for life.
"I have shamed my country, I have shamed my sport, I have shamed those close to me and for that I'm not proud," he says.
In a short statement New Zealand Cricket said it supported the ban.
Chief executive David White said he was appalled by Vincent's repeated offences, but wouldn't comment further as Vincent is still the subject of a police investigation.
The International Cricket Council, as well as former and current players, have also welcomed the outcome and Vincent's confession.
"You knew from the outside it was reaching boiling point," says former Indian cricketer Ravi Shastri.
"For him to come out in this fashion, that's the positive for me, because at least he's come out and admitted. His life ban will stay. What he's said is exactly right"
The exclusive interview with Vincent will screen on 3rd Degree tonight at 8pm.
3 News
source: newshub archive
