Betting in cricket should be legalised: Justice Mudgal

Justice (Retd) Mukul Mudgal, who has headed the IPL spot-fixing and betting probe, on Friday called for betting in cricket to be made legalised in the country.

Asked about legalising betting in the sport, Justice Mudgal said he supports such a step as it would help prevent corruption in cricket. "It will help in reducing spot fixing and other illegal practices, the government will also be able to make money from it in the form of taxes," he said.

Justice Mudgal said the BCCI is entitled to its opinion on the recommendations of the Supreme Court appointed Justice Lodha panel recommendations seeking sweeping reforms to its structure. He added that he has received a letter from Delhi and District Cricket Association regarding the managing committee meeting where observations were made on the Lodha Committee report.

"I have received a letter from the DDCA stating that no such committee exists and no decisions were taken on the Lodha Committee recommendations," Justice Mudgal said after his book titled 'Law and Sports in India' was launched in the capital. The Justice spoke in support of Indian Premier League and said it helps young players as they get an opportunity to rub shoulders with the big stars of international cricket. Justice Mudgal has co-authored this book with Vidushpat Singhania, managing partner at Lodus Legal. The book touches upon topics including the IPL probe report and doping controversies.