Vadodara (Gujarat), August 21 (ANI): Former Indian cricketer Jacob Martin has been cleared of all charges in a 22-year-old legal case. The case, which began with a 2004 FIR, involved allegations under several IPC sections, including forgery and conspiracy, as well as the Passport Act.
The court found no credible evidence to support claims of forged UK immigration stamps, financial fraud, or Martin’s involvement in questionable travel arrangements. Witnesses also failed to back up the accusations against him.
Martin expressed relief over the acquittal, calling it a turning point in his life. He explained that the case arose after a teammate overstayed his visa in the UK and returned with a fake stamp. Despite not being named in the original FIR, Martin was later implicated due to his fame as an international cricketer.
The lengthy legal battle caused him significant stress, leading to the loss of his railway job. However, he is now relieved, stating that the acquittal brings closure after 22 years of uncertainty.
Jacob Martin, a right-handed batter, played 10 ODIs for India, scoring 158 runs at an average of 22.57. (ANI)