Cricketer Herbie Bascome has hit out at allegations that he conspired to bring drugs in to the country.

The claims were made in the recent trial of Cup Match cricketer Dean Minors, who was recently acquitted of smuggling ten bags of cannabis worth more than $200,000, hidden inside dresser drawer panels last year.

During the trial earlier this month the court heard allegations that the dresser had been bought in Alabama and it was alleged Mr. Bascome had been there at that time.

But in a statement released by his lawyer Victoria Pearman yesterday, Mr. Bascome said he had no dealings with Alabama since he went there for a football tournament in 1987.

The father of four said he worked with young people here and overseas and it was important he maintained his integrity.

He said: “I cannot sit idly by whilst my character and integrity is wrongfully attacked.

“The reports in the paper contain false and misleading impressions that I am involved in this case. There is no evidence whatsoever to support this.

“To my knowledge no evidence has been presented that I have conspired with anyone in connection with drugs or anything else.”

He said he was being linked with the case because he is a Rastafarian.

He said: “Unfortunately it is easy to falsely accuse an innocent person and potentially undermine his character without any evidence.

“Some people automatically assume people with dreadlocks are involved in drugs and crime.”

Mr. Bascome said similar allegations would not have been made about someone who was clean shaven.

Mr. Bascome, who is opening bowler for the national cricket team and plays for St. George's cricket and football teams, continued: “Prejudice or not, it is my intention to work in sport and with the youth of this country.

“My conscience is clear and I am hopeful that parents, teachers and officials will not unjustly penalise me and deprive me of my endeavours to live a humble Godly life and continue my effort to make a meaningful contribution to my society.”

Last night Royal Gazette editor Bill Zuill defended this newspaper's coverage of the case.

“In any court case we are obliged to publish a fair and accurate report of the proceedings,” he said.

“That means publishing the prosecution and defence case in full, regardless of which side of the story the jury chooses to eventually believe."