International cricket body toughens doping policy

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) -- Cricket's governing body strengthened its drug policy to comply with a new World Anti-Doping Agency code that takes effect Thursday.

International cricket players will now have to be available for testing at all times and inform the International Cricket Council of their whereabouts. Missing three doping tests during an 18-month period can result in punishment.

"This code means it has just become even harder for drug cheats to get away with doping practices and it is part of our continued battle to ensure fair competition for all," ICC chief executive Haroon Lorgat said Monday.

The ICC has followed the WADA code since 2006 and has been drug testing since 2002.

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