KATHMANDU, Sept 3: The probe committee formed by All Nepal Football Association (ANFA) to look into the match-fixing rumors and allegations during the last Martyrs Memorial Red Bull A Division League has started investigations from Friday, a month-and-a-half after its formation.
ANFA had formed the committee under the leadership of its vice-president Mahesh Bista on July 13.[break]
“After July 13, we were busy in the World Cup Qualifying matches, SAFF U-16 Football Championship and ANFA´s award ceremonies,” said Bista. “Meanwhile, we were also formulating procedures for the committee to follow as match-fixing is a serious issue.”
According to Bista, the committee consulted two match-commissioners, Indra Man Tuladhar and Sanjeeb Mishra, as well as referee assessor Buddhi Gurung on Friday.
“We´ll record statements of the club officials and players in the course of investigating the complaints,” said Bista. “We´ll take time but come up with concrete findings.”
The match-fixing scandal came to light after low running G-Five Machhindra Club defeated gaint-killer Mahindra Bansbari Club 3-0 on July 12.
Relegated Swayambhu Club and Brigade Boys Club alleged Machhindra of match-fixing and both the teams played their last match with black arm-bands and placards reading ´Stop match-fixing, save football´.
Manang Marshyangdi Club President Tashi Ghale even threatened to pull out of the upcoming National League if the match-fixing allegations are not investigated properly.
ANFA´s probe committee includes its General Secretary Dhirendra Pradhan, Member Ganesh Chand, Legal Advisor Rajaram Dhakal and a Nepal Police representative.