New Zealand wants swift resolution to Pakistan scandal

Wellington:

New Zealand Cricket was on Monday guarded in its response to the 'spot-fixing' scandal that has rocked the game, saying that justice should be done quickly to prevent the controversy from dragging on.

NZC chief Justin Vaughan refused to give a specific opinion on a British tabloid's sting operation about Pakistani players being involved in 'spot-fixing' during the lost Lord's Test against England.

"Justice needs to be done, but also swiftly to stop this dragging on," Vaughan was quoted as saying by the media here.

"I don't think there is any belief that betting practices extend to New Zealand," he added.

Vaughan hoped that the scandal would not have any bearing on Pakistan's tour of New Zealand in December.

"It's important we have their best team and we're preparing as well as possible for the World Cup, which happens immediately after," he added.

British tabloid 'The News of the World's' sting operation on a bookie claimed that deliberate no-balls were bowled by Pakistan bowlers -- Mohammad Asif and Mohammad Aamir -- during the fourth Test against England at Lord's, which the hosts won by an innings and 225 runs.

Police in London arrested the bookie Mazhar Majeed in connection with the allegations but later released him on bail.

"While nothing has been proven, the bad publicity is having an impact on the game," Vaughan said.