The cricketing world was hit by yet another bolt of spot-fixing lighting on Thursday when Rajasthan Royals cricketers S. Sreesanth, Ankeet Chavan and Ajit Chandila were arrested by Delhi police, who later produced transcripts and videographic evidence.
The Royals camp would have been hit the hardest, being at the epicentre of this all, and the solemn body language of skipper Rahul Dravid and coach Paddy Upton as they walked out to read a statement to the press here at the Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium here amply reflected the mood in the dressing room.
“I am shocked, disappointed, and distressed by the events that have resulted in the arrests last night and this morning,” said Dravid. “Rajasthan Royals are a special team, where we have always operated like a family — so this is particularly devastating.
“Spot-fixing and corruption have hung over the game of cricket, and I know that the BCCI and Rajasthan Royals take the same zero tolerance view of the situation and I am sure that they (the owners) will support any action taken.” he added.
“For me, as a captain and leader, I have to focus on ensuring that the team continue to play in the ‘Rajasthan Royals’ way. I hope that our fans get behind us even more, and that we become stronger as a unit — which often happens in times of adversity,” Dravid added.
Coach Upton also echoed Dravid’s views.