In a series of surprising events, former India cricketer Jacob Martin has received a big relief after the Patiala High Court cleared him in a 22-year-old criminal case. The Vadodara-based former player, who had faced allegations connected to a 2004 tour of England, described the court's decision as one of the happiest moments of his life. Martin continued to fight his case over the years and has now been cleared of the charges.
The prolonged legal case also took a toll on his professional life, as he did not secure a job with the BCCI and also lost his employment with the Railways. With the case finally behind him, Martin can look forward to his life.
What had actually happened?
The case actually took place during India's tour of England in 2004, when Martin was part of the travelling squad. While the rest of the team came back home, one player reportedly stayed back in the UK as his visa remained valid for just six months. After that period expired, he allegedly attempted to extend his stay using a forged stamp and was subsequently deported to India. During the police questioning, Martin's name surfaced, leading to his involvement.
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In response, Martin cooperated with both police and the cricket board during the investigation. After finally being cleared, the former India cricketer labeled the verdict as giving him a new lease of life.
"And after the case ended, this... now, after 22 years... during these 22 years, I was not getting any answers from the BCCI either; I lost my job in the railways. So I had a lot of stress because of this, but this judgment that has come now. I have got a clean chit; it will be a big settlement for my life and very... after 22 years, this... appeal I have received is a very big U-turn for my life," said Martin.
Jacob Martin's India career
The Vadodara-based cricketer was a right-handed batter, who represented India in 10 ODIs between 1999 and 2001. He scored 158 runs at an average of 22, remaining unbeaten once in eight innings. His domestic numbers were far more impressive, with 9,192 runs from 138 first-class games, and 2,948 runs in 101 List A games. He also played two T20 games, amassing 14 runs.