In August 2013 the WPBSA’s global gambling monitoring network notified the association that there were unusual betting patterns in relation to two matches during the Qualifying event for the Shanghai Masters played in Doncaster.
The first match was between Thanawat Tirapongpaiboon and Ross Muir and bets were placed on Ross Muir to win. The second match was between Passakorn Suwannawat and Mohamed Khairy and bets were was placed on Mohamed Khairy to win.
These bets were considered suspicious as there appeared to be a disregard for the risk of the bets being unsuccessful given the amount of money that was placed and the odds available when considered in the context of the betting history of the individuals making the bets.
The WPBSA initiated an investigation into the matches and in partnership with the Gambling Commission have conducted extensive enquiries into the unusual betting patterns surrounding these matches.
The WPBSA’s investigation process included liaising with partners in the betting industry and conducting enquiries in the UK and Thailand. Thanawat Tirapongpaiboon and Passakorn Suwannawat were interviewed by the WPBSA as part of this process.
The WPBSA have not found evidence to show any link a between the Thai players and the suspicious betting activity. The WPBSA will therefore take no further action in relation to this suspicious betting.
David, did you watch those matches?
I think a real expert can say at once whether the matches were lost on purpose or not, can’t he?