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The Australian state of Victoria is reportedly urging all gaming and gambling regulators to consider banning bets on all cricket matches involving Pakistan. As investigations continue into the alleged spot-fixing scandal involving Pakistan players in England, Victorian Gaming Minister Tony Robinson has ordered the state's gambling regulator to review whether it is appropriate to allow betting on matches involving Pakistan. ''I regret that this action needs to be taken, but the government has a clear responsibility to ensure sporting events which Victorians can bet on are conducted fairly,'' The Age quoted Robinson, as saying. ''Recent allegations about the Pakistan cricket team mean we can no longer draw that conclusion,'' he added. Robinson says that he is expecting other state and territory gaming ministers to follow suit. ''Sports betting is regulated by the states, so each state needs to be assured that it is fair for betting to continue on this type of match to ensure a nationally consistent approach,'' he said. ''A number of gaming ministers have already expressed their willingness to investigate this matter further,'' he added. The Victorian Commission for Gaming Regulation independently determines whether to approve betting on specific sports. It permits betting on matches ''controlled and regulated by national or international authorities''. ''My responsibility is to ensure sporting events which Victorians can bet on are conducted fairly,'' Robinson said. ''Ultimately, I am hopeful this (spot fixing) issue will be resolved and people around the world will continue to enjoy the cricket without any questions about its integrity,'' he added.

Australian state considering ban on cricket match bets involving Pakistan