Snooker Scandal: Mark King Faces Five-Year Ban for Match-Fixing

English snooker player Mark King has been banned for five years due to match-fixing and providing inside information. The ban relates to a match with Joe Perry that flagged suspicious betting. King's suspension follows similar bans on Chinese players and emphasizes the sport's commitment to integrity.

In a significant blow to the world of snooker, English player Mark King received a five-year ban on Friday for match-fixing and disseminating inside information, in the latest corruption case to tarnish the sport.

The punishment stems from King's involvement in a February 13th match against Joe Perry at the Welsh Open. The match drew suspicion due to irregular betting patterns, leading to an investigation by the snooker governing body.

King, who once ranked 11th globally, was also fined over 68,000 pounds. His suspension is part of a wider crackdown on integrity breaches, following lifetime bans for Chinese players Liang Wenbo and Li Hang for similar offenses last year.

(With inputs from agencies.)