Which of the following is the first South Asian country to call match-fixing a crime?

Sri Lanka

The correct answer is Option (3) - Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka indeed holds the distinction of being the first South Asian country to criminalize match-fixing. This initiative was undertaken to address the issue of corruption in sports, particularly cricket, which is immensely popular in Sri Lanka. In 2019, Sri Lanka passed legislation specifically targeting match-fixing and related offenses. The law criminalized match-fixing, corruption in sports, and illegal betting, making such activities punishable by law. This step was crucial in combating the scourge of corruption that undermines the integrity of sports and erodes public trust.

By enacting this law, Sri Lanka demonstrated a strong commitment to maintaining the purity and fairness of sports competitions within its borders. The legislation aimed to deter individuals involved in match-fixing by imposing severe penalties, including imprisonment and hefty fines. This proactive approach by Sri Lanka set an important precedent in the region, prompting other South Asian countries to consider similar measures to tackle the menace of match-fixing and uphold the integrity of sports.