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 betting breaches, ending his hopes of a Test debut this summer.

Although 13 months of the ban for making 303 bets on cricket matches between 2017-19 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.

‘While these bets were several years ago, that is no 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 during this difficult time for me.

‘I will be working hard in the next 12 weeks to ensure that I repay that support on the field when I am able to return to playing.’

Carse’s remorse for his actions, his full co-operation 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 recently-formed Cricket Regulator’s sanctioning.

Provided he does not commit any further offences contrary to the anti-corruption rules over the next two years, he will face no further penalties.

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

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

Now his extended absence from the field will act as a reminder to others: cricket’s betting integrity rules mean that no player, coach or support staff member is permitted to bet on any cricket anywhere in the world.

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

‘The Cricket Regulator understands the many challenges participants can face and will handle cases fairly, with understanding and support for anyone who wishes to come forward. We also encourage any participant struggling with any welfare concerns to seek assistance from the PCA or other trusted professional source.’

An ECB spokesperson added: ‘We take these matters extremely seriously and do not condone any form of anti-corruption breach in cricket.

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