In a bid to try to stamp out match-fixing, the Sharjah authorities have announced that players will be prevented from using mobile phones during tournaments, and that security in and around the dressing-rooms will be increased. Sharjah has been closely identified as one of the venues most susceptible to corruption, so the announcement might be interpreted as the organisers being seen to be trying to clean up their act. The Sharjah authorities sought the help of the International Cricket Council's Anti-Corruption Unit on how best to tackle a problem which had threatened the future of the ground as a centre for one-day internationals.

"We have embraced Lord Condon's recommendations, especially security around the players' dressing-rooms," said Zahid Noorani, chief executive of the Cricketers' Benefit Fund Series which organises the Sharjah tournaments. "There will be one mobile phone allowed, and that is with the manager.

"The action is for the players' benefit," he added. "The only purpose behind this exercise is to protect them from untoward approaches from bookmakers."

Clive Lloyd, the former West Indies captain, has been undertaking an investigation into cricket corruption in the United Arab Emirates. His report is expected later this year.

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