Police have warned people who try to manipulate betting on the ICC Cricket World Cup 2015 that they will be caught and banned from all grounds involved in the tournament.
Police evicted several people from the opening match at North Hagley Park in Christchurch today for breaching the terms and conditions of their tickets, including some who were caught “courtsiding”. Courtsiding refers to the practice of spectators within venues relaying information of incidents during games to people overseas, taking advantage of broadcasting time delays to manipulate betting.
It is different from match-fixing, which is the manipulation of sporting events to achieve a pre-determined outcome.
Courtsiding is not illegal in New Zealand, but it is a breach of the terms and conditions of ICC Cricket World Cup 2015 tickets.
Operation Commander for the ICC Cricket World Cup 2015 policing operation Superintendent Sandy Manderson said Police knew how to idenfity people who were courtsiding and those attempting it would be caught.
“We know what to look for. We’re aware that people are attempting to operate at venues and they will be detected, evicted and trespassed from all venues.
“We will continue to ensure that ICC Cricket World Cup 2015 is a success and an enjoyable and memorable experience for everyone involved.”
She said Police were pleased with the behaviour of the vast majority of spectators at today’s game, who had ensured the tournament got off to a successful start.