Higgins suspended over frame-fixing claims

World Snooker chairman Barry Hearn has confirmed that John Higgins has been suspended over newspaper allegations of frame-fixing.

The statement came in response to an article which appeared in the News of the World today claiming it had footage of Higgins and his manager Pat Mooney agreeing to accept payment of €300,000 in return for fixing the outcome of frames in matches to be played later this year.

Mooney has tabled his resignation to the sport’s governing body. Hearn revealed, “John Higgins has been suspended from all future WPBSA events subject to an investigation which begins immediately – and this will be dealt with in a summary fashion.

“I don’t think I’ve ever felt so let down or kicked. We’re working so hard on revitalising the game and there are lots of people pulling in the right direction.

Devestated

“We wanted the headlines to be about Steve Davis’ revitalisation, Stephen Hendry’s recovery…but all we’re talking about is the News of the World expose on John Higgins and his manager, which has left me feeling devastated.”

Hearn continued on talkSPORT: “We can’t afford, nor will I tolerate, anybody or anything that adversely affects the integrity of the game. I take this matter terribly seriously, obviously not prejudging. That’s why there’s a disciplinary process.

“I’m not prepared to see the sport die under this type of publicity. I know there may be reasons, excuses – but I don’t want to get involved in that. This situation has been allowed to happen and there are repercussions for the sport.”