Former Essex bowler Mervyn Westfield admits corruption charge

Former Essex seamer Mervyn Westfield has pleaded guilty to charges of corruption.

The 23-year-old has been charged with accepting or obtaining corrupt payments under the Corruption Act and helping others to cheat under the 2005 Gambling Act.

Westfield is alleged to have deliberately bowled a wayward opening throw from his first over, resulting in 12 runs conceded during a Pro40 match against Durham in September 2009. The cricketer conceded 60 runs throughout the entire match.

Judge Morris, who was directing proceedings in London, said: "I hold no promise for the outcome."

Westfield will return to court on February 10 and could face a maximum penalty of seven years in prison.