Odumbe hearing to begin in Kenya on Tuesday

The ICC Code of Conduct hearing into the allegation that Kenyan cricketer Maurice Odumbe received money, benefit or other reward which could bring him or the game of cricket into disrepute will begin in Nairobi on Tuesday 27 July.

The charge relates to an alleged breach of the ICC's Code of Conduct for Players and Team Officials and follows an investigation by the ICC's Anti Corruption and Security Unit.

Mr Odumbe will face allegations that he had inappropriate contact with a known bookmaker and received money, benefit or reward from that bookmaker.

Justice Ahmed Ebrahim has been appointed by the Kenyan Cricket Association (KCA) and the ICC to preside over the hearing as adjudicator.

Mr Kamau Karori will act on behalf of the KCA and the ICC, while Mr Ishan Kapila will represent Mr Odumbe.

During the course of the proceedings, which are expected to last five days, each party will have the opportunity to put forward evidence and call witnesses.

The full hearing follows a preliminary hearing in Nairobi in May at which Justice Ebrahim determined that there was a case to answer.

At the conclusion of this hearing, Justice Ebrahim will consider the evidence and determine if the charges levelled against Odumbe are proven. If they are proven, he will suggest to the KCA an appropriate sanction.

If the charges are proven the KCA must then decide on the sanction and impose it upon the player. The outcome of the hearing and any sanction imposed will then be put before the ICC Code of Conduct Commission which will determine whether the process that has been followed is sufficient and whether the sanction imposed (if any) is appropriate.

The Code of Conduct Commission will then prepare a detailed report for the ICC Executive Board who will make the final decision on the matter.

Under the ICC's Code of Conduct for Players and Team Officials, players can face penalties ranging from a suspension for a minimum of two years up to a life ban from the game depending on the nature of the charge.

The hearing will take place in the Stanley Hotel, Nairobi. Proceedings will begin at 10am local time on Tuesday 27 July.

Justice Ebrahim has decreed that it will be an open hearing. Llimited members of the media may attend but due to restraints of space, an accreditation process will be in operation. To apply for accreditation, members of the media should attend a briefing session with Jon Long from the ICC in the Huxley room of the Stanley Hotel on Monday 26 July at 4pm.

It should be noted that recording equipment will not be permitted in the hearing room.