Meanwhile, the Sports Ministry today asked Indian Premier League authorities to hand down deterrent punishment to three cricketers allegedly involved in spot-fixing if they are found guilty and said the Board should ensure that such unethical incidents do not happen in future.

"It is very unfortunate that Delhi Police have arrested some cricket players for their alleged role in the spot fixing in the ongoing IPL tournament," the Ministry said in a statement.

"The Minister of Sports, Shri Jitendra Singh has spoken to Chairman of the IPL Shri Rajeev Shukla on the issue and impressed upon him to take urgent steps to put in place a mechanism to prevent such unethical activities and ensure clean sports in the country.

"The Minister also emphasised that strict action be taken against all those who are found guilty to serve as a deterrent to others," the release added.