Justice swift for World Cup betting cheats

World Cup players and coaches have reacted with dismay at the discovery of betting cheats operating at the opening match of the tournament.

However, they are encouraged that police acted quickly to evict transgressors, proving that cricket authorities are making headway in the fight against illegal and immoral activity.

Police said they caught several people "courtsiding" during the match between New Zealand and Sri Lanka at Hagley Oval on Saturday.

Courtsiding is where spectators relay information to people overseas, taking advantage of broadcasting time delays to manipulate betting.

"We know what to look for," Superintendent Sandy Manderson says.

"We're aware that people are attempting to operate at venues and they will be detected, evicted and trespassed from all venues."

Courtsiding is not illegal in New Zealand, but it's a breach of the terms and conditions of tickets.

New Zealand coach Mike Hesson was pleased the International Cricket Council seemed to be delivering on their pre-tournament promise to crack down on illegal betting.

"It shows the ICC have got things as under control as they can. The fact they have evicted some people is a good sign," Hesson said.

"I think there will still be elements that try to take opportunities in these tournaments."

Scotland captain Preston Mommsen says he and his team-mates have come under tight security since arriving in Dunedin ahead of their first game on Tuesday, against New Zealand.

Strict measures ensure none of the players can come in contact with match fixers or be involved in any betting.

"From a playing point of view, we're very well policed. It's not something we really think about," Mommsen said.

"But it's disappointing that that is still going on. It's obviously something that is very hard to control and the sort of thing you want eradicated from the game."

Overall police were pleased with crowd behaviour in Christchurch despite two streakers who got a fair way across the field before they were bundled off, along with several intoxicated spectators.

A 26-year-old man and a 23-year-old man would appear in Christchurch District Court on Tuesday. They face a fine of up to $5000 or up to three months in jail.

Police evicted and trespassed 14 people due to intoxication and inappropriate behaviour, which was a low number given the crowd size of nearly 17,500.