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ECB confirms Eoin Morgan blackmail plot

The England and Wales Cricket Board confirms reports that Eoin Morgan was the subject of a recent blackmail attempt, claiming that the matter has now been put to bed.

The England and Wales Cricket Board has confirmed that one-day captain Eoin Morgan was the subject of a recent blackmail attempt.

An individual demanded a five-figure sum to prevent a story regarding the 28-year-old going public in national newspapers in the UK and Australia.

The allegations centre around a woman with whom Morgan enjoyed a personal relationship five years ago.

Following liaison with the Metropolitan Police, the ECB investigated the blackmail attempt further by questioning the man, who later admitted to his actions and apologised.

In a short statement, the governing body added: "The ECB will not allow anyone to disrupt our team's performance on the field of play. We are wholly focused on winning cricket matches.

"This matter has now been brought to a conclusion and we will not be seeking further action against the individual at this stage."

Managing director Paul Downton said: "We will not allow anyone to disrupt our team's preparation or performance in the Tri-series and as we build up to the World Cup. I am pleased that this issue has now been brought to a swift conclusion.

"At this point we'd like to thank the Metropolitan Police for their advice, which assisted us in dealing with this in the swiftest possible manner."

England return to action tomorrow when they take on Australia in their latest Tri-series clash.

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England's Kevin Pietersen leaves the pitch after losing his wicket for 6 runs during the third one day international (ODI) cricket match between England and Australia at Edgbaston cricket ground in Birmingham, central England on September 11, 2013
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