Sri Lanka investigates attempt to fix international cricket match

Sri Lankan authorities are investigating an attempt to fix an international cricket match involving the national team and the West Indies. Sports Minister Dayasiri Jayasekera said a suspected bookmaker had approached two Sri Lankan players ahead of the match to try to convince them to under-perform and lose the match. Both players turned down the approach and the authorities were informed, Mr Jayasekara said. Sri Lanka went on to win the game. Wicketkeeper Kusal Perera and bowler Rangana Herath were approached shortly before the match in Galle, Sri Lanka, in October, the minister said.

'Sri Lanka minister suggests 'conspiracy' over doping charge'

Kusal Perera's failed drugs test could be part of a "conspiracy" against the wicketkeeper-batsman, according to Sri Lanka's sports minister. The 25-year-old tested positive for a banned substance and was sent home from the tour of New Zealand last week. Sports Minister Dayasiri Jayasekera told parliament that authorities will send a B sample to the International Cricket Council for testing. "We are doing all we can to defend him," said the minister. "We are wondering if this allegation is a conspiracy to keep him out of next year's T20 World Cup."