Sri Lanka bans sports betting

The segment was already illegal but Sri Lanka has banned sports betting on overseas competitions as well in order to prevent match-fixing.

Sri Lanka.- Cricket is a huge sport in Sri Lanka, but was involved in a match-fixing scandal recently. National team players were suspended for corruption and pushed Sri Lanka to ban sports wagering completely.

The segment was already illegal in the country, but the prohibition now includes overseas events. 

The ICC had branded Sri Lanka as one of the most corrupt cricketing nations in regards to sports betting. Moreover, Sri Lankan sports minister Harin Fernando said: “Many tried to prevent this piece of legislation. But I am happy that it was taken up today.”

The sports betting market is one of the most successful verticals in the world. That’s why such a ban means a major setback for the gaming industry in the area.