Editorial | More must be done to end corruption in China’s sports sector
- The banning last week of 10 snooker players from China for match fixing and illicit betting, in the biggest scandal to hit the sport, is more than a major setback. It is a disgrace
Snooker has enjoyed a surge in popularity in China in recent years with many millions taking up the sport. Talented young Chinese players capable of reaching the highest levels have emerged.
The banning last week of 10 players from China for match fixing and illicit betting, in the biggest scandal to hit the sport, is more than a major setback. It is a disgrace.
An investigation was launched after suspicious betting patterns were identified. A disciplinary hearing was then held in London. It led to the World Professional Billiards and Snooker Association (WPBSA) imposing bans on the players involved, for breaching regulations.
The two most serious offenders Liang Wenbo and Li Hang have been kicked out of the sport for life. They were found to have been the ringleaders of the operation which mostly targeted matches in Britain last year. They were responsible for putting pressure on younger players to take part.
Jason Ferguson, chairman of the WPBSA, rightly described their conduct as “wholly unacceptable” and said it was heartbreaking to see talented young players corrupted.
China’s snooker fans will be especially disappointed to see Yan Bingtao and Zhao Xintong among the players banned. Both young players have been tipped as potential world champions.
