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Two more snooker players suspended in match-fixing investigation

| By Robert Fletcher
The World Professional Billiards and Snooker Association (WPBSA) has suspended two more players amid its ongoing investigations into allegations of match-fixing for betting purposes.

Chinese players Zhao Xintong and Zhang Jiankang will not be able to attend or compete in any World Snooker Tour event for the foreseeable future.

The WPBSA said the suspensions would remain in place until it concluded its investigations, or any subsequent charges are brought. Both players will have the right to appeal against the decision.

The latest two rulings follow a series of suspensions announced in recent months as part of the ongoing probe into alleged match-fixing activities that breached the WPBSA Conduct Regulations.

Last month, Chinese star and former Masters champion Yan Bingtao was suspended, along with fellow Chinese players Lu Ning, Li Hang, Zhao Jianbo, Bai Langning and Chang Bingyu.

This decision is part of an ongoing investigation into allegations of manipulating the outcome of matches for betting purposes in breach of the WPBSA Conduct Regulations.

Liang Wenbo, also of China, was suspended in October, while England’s Garry Coulson was suspended from attending or competing in sanctioned events.  

“The WPBSA can confirm that the wider investigation is now at an advanced stage, and it is anticipated will be completed shortly at which point any potential charges will be considered,” the WPBSA said.

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