England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB)'s anti-corruption unit found two suspected gamblers during the first ODI of women's Ashes in Bristol.
During the regular scanning by an anti-corruption officer, two men were found doing suspected activities. As reported by the English media, the first individual was spotted using multiple mobile phones before the match. After he was caught, he admitted to doing 'pitch-siding' — a banned practice in sports venues due to illegal gambling.
The other individual denied wrongdoing but he was suspiciously involved in the same activities. Both individuals were taken into custody by Somerset Police.
Reports also claimed that an unnamed English player also reported to ECB's anti-corruption unit that she received a message from an unknown person on social media asking her to share a photo of the pitch with them before the match.
English media claimed that both men's and women's Ashes are on target for illegal gambling. Individuals are paid between £100 and £200 a day to sit in the ground and share information.
"Anti-corruption officials have estimated there are around 100,000 bookmakers operating illegally in India, where sports betting is largely focused on cricket," the English media reported.
According to an ECB statement, strict action will be taken against the suspected gamblers. "Two people were ejected from the venue for breaking ground regulations. The ICC and the ECB take anti-corruption seriously," the statement read.
England women's won the first ODI of three-match series against Australia women's. The English batters chased down the target of 264 with two wickets in hands and 11 balls to spare.