The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has lifted the lifetime ban imposed on former New Zealand cricketer Lou Vincent. The batsman was banned for life in June 2014 after he was found guilty of a match-fixing incident and was not allowed to participate in cricket in any capacity.

The ECB’s Cricket Disciplinary Commission (CDC) has lifted the ban imposed on Lou Vincent with immediate effect. Former New Zealand cricketers can now participate in matches at or below the level of domestic cricket. This comes after the batsman demanded that the bans be lifted in August 2023.

The ECB released the official statement and stated: “Factors to be taken into account include those in article 6.8.2 of the ECB Anti-Corruption Code. In this regard, Mr. Vincent’s application is supported by the most powerful and compelling evidence demonstrating the highest levels of contrition and remorse and the best efforts to make amends wherever possible.”

The decision to reverse Lou Vincent’s lifetime ban from cricket was made taking into account his actions after the ban. He collaborated with civil and cricket authorities in various parts of the world and also participated in anti-corruption educational programs for New Zealand Cricket and the ECB.

Lou Vincent was involved in match-fixing during his time at Sussex in 2008. He also committed seven infringements in the 2011 Champions League Twenty20, after which he received a ban. He, however, at that time had accepted all the sanctions against him.

Being able to return to the cricket environment means a lot to me – Lou Vincent

Lou Vincent also spoke about lifting the lifetime ban. He said that he is very lucky and returning to the cricket environment means a lot to him. He stated:

“Very lucky to be able to get back to cricket. I made a terrible mistake many years ago, which I will deeply regret for the rest of my life, and I remain sorry for the damage I caused. Being able to return to the cricket environment means a lot to me and I feel very lucky to have that opportunity again.”

Lou Vincent played 23 Tests for New Zealand and scored 1,332 runs at an average of 34.15 to complete three centuries and nine half-centuries. He also played 102 ODIs and scored 2413 runs, along with 3 tons and 11 half-centuries.