England cricketer Brydon Carse handed 16-month ban for historic betting breaches after placing 303 bets over two years… but the Durham fast bowler could play in AUGUST

England international Brydon Carse has been hit with a 16-month ban for historic gambling offences, ending his hopes of a Test debut this summer.

Although the ban on placing 303 bets on cricket matches for 13 months between 2017 and 2019 was suspended for two years, the Durham fast bowler – capped by England in both one-day and Twenty20 formats – will not be available again until August 29.

“Although these bets took place several years ago, that is not an excuse and I take full responsibility for my actions,” Carse said in a statement.

‘I would like to thank the ECB, Durham and the Professional Cricketers’ Association for their support at what has been a difficult time for me.

“I will work hard over the next twelve weeks to ensure I repay that support on the pitch when I am able to play again.”

The fast bowler from Durham, who is included in the one-day and T20 formats, will not be able to play until August 28

Carse’s remorse for his actions, his full cooperation with the investigation and the fact that none of the bets were placed on matches in which he was involved were all mitigating factors in the sanctions imposed by the newly established Cricket Regulator.

Provided he does not commit any further offenses in breach of anti-corruption rules over the next two years, he will not face any further punishment.

The 28-year-old was on England’s radar to play in Test action against the West Indies or Sri Lanka this summer, following the retirement of Stuart Broad at the top level last July and the impending retirement of Jimmy Anderson.

On the eve of this season, the ECB asked Durham to manage the workload of Carse, who has a two-year central contract, by restricting him to five of the first seven County Championship games.

Now his prolonged absence from the field will serve as a reminder to others: cricket betting integrity rules mean that no player, coach or support staff member anywhere in the world is allowed to bet on cricket.

“The Cricket Regulator takes any breach of integrity or misconduct seriously and I would encourage any participant, from within professional sport, who has gambled on cricket to come forward and not wait to be discovered,” said Dave Lewis, interim director.

‘The Cricket Regulator understands the many challenges that participants may face and will deal with matters fairly, with understanding and support for anyone who wishes to come forward. We also encourage any participant struggling with wellness issues to seek help from the PCA or another trusted professional source.”

He accepted charges of placing 303 bets on various cricket matches between 2017 and 2019

An ECB spokesperson added: ‘We take these matters very seriously and will not tolerate any form of infringement in the fight against corruption in cricket.

“We are hopeful that his case can serve as an educational example for other cricketers.”