Former Australian Test cricketer Stuart MacGill has been arrested and charged in connection with an alleged large-scale cocaine transaction, according to Chatswood police in Australia. MacGill first came to the attention of detectives in April 2021 when he claimed he had been kidnapped by a group of armed individuals outside his residence in the Sydney suburb of Cremorne.
Stuart MacGill Arrested For Alleged Role In $300,000 Cocaine Deal
Reportedly, MacGill was forcibly taken to a remote location on the outskirts of the city, where he alleged he was assaulted and threatened at gunpoint. Subsequently, he was transported to a different location and released. Although he sustained minor injuries during the incident, he did not require medical attention. Describing the incident, the 52-year-old, who also owns a restaurant, stated last year that he was “stripped naked, beaten, threatened, and then abandoned.” Initially, MacGill maintained his innocence, stating, “I’ve done nothing wrong.” At that time, the police considered him solely a victim. However, following an extensive investigation into the matter, the police now assert that MacGill’s kidnapping was connected to his involvement in a drug deal.
MacGill established himself as a highly regarded leg-spinner during his cricketing career. However, his opportunities for international selection were often limited due to the presence of Shane Warne, making it difficult for him to secure a regular place in the Australian team. As a result, he primarily represented Australia when Warne was unavailable due to injury or suspension, or when the team opted for two spinners. Nevertheless, MacGill concluded his career with an impressive record of over 200 Test wickets, which included a standout performance in the 1998/99 Ashes series, where he led with 27 wickets during Australia’s victorious campaign.
On Friday, the police announced that MacGill is facing one charge related to knowingly participating in the distribution of a significant quantity of a prohibited drug. A total of six individuals have been charged in connection with the incident, one of whom is MacGill’s former partner’s brother. According to local media reports, the alleged drug transaction involved more than $300,000 worth of cocaine. MacGill, the former Australian bowler who played 44 Test matches for his country, has been released on bail and is scheduled to appear in court on October 26th. While MacGill was widely recognized as a talented bowler, his career coincided with that of Shane Warne, widely regarded as one of the greatest spin bowlers of all time. Yet, MacGill was granted stringent conditional bail and is scheduled to appear before Manly Local Court on October 26th.