DNA re-test extends Woolmer inquest

Published November 12, 2007

KINGSTON, Nov 11: DNA samples taken from the body of former Pakistan cricket coach Bob Woolmer will be re-tested, extending the inquest into his death into a fourth week.

Woolmer, a former England batsman was found unconscious in his Jamaica hotel room on March 18, a day after his Pakistan team was humiliated by Ireland in the Cricket World Cup.

Woolmer was pronounced dead at the University of West Indies hospital but an autopsy called the death suspicious and then murder, which sparked an intense manhunt by Jamaican police until a review reversed the findings.

Coroner Patrick Murphy has asked for more tests of samples from Woolmer's corpse, pushing the review beyond Friday's scheduled conclusion.

The latest testimony focused upon what money Woolmer had and when and where he had obtained it. Money he had on March 12 was not his World Cup per diem.

Michael Hall, director of cricket operations for the Cricket World Cup, testified that Pakistan was to receive an allocation of US$23,920 on March 14.

“It is my recollection that the Pakistan team received their money on the 14th of March,” Hall said.

Patricia Baker-Sinclair had earlier testified that she saw Woolmer with what appeared to be a large roll of US currency talking to an Indian man in the Pakistan team's dressing room at Sabina Park.

Attorney Jermaine Spence, representing the International Cricket Council, said a coach carrying such sums was not unusual, especially during long road trips when they are tasked with distributing player per diem payments.

Two empty champagne bottles were found in Woolmer's room when his body was discovered. They were confiscated and tested.—AFP

Opinion

Editorial

GB polls’ aftermath
Updated 11 Jun, 2026

GB polls’ aftermath

The new administration must address the region’s issues proactively.
Peace in retreat
11 Jun, 2026

Peace in retreat

THE ceasefire announced in April was supposed to create space for negotiations. Instead, it has been repeatedly...
A few good men
11 Jun, 2026

A few good men

IT was a brave move, no doubt. This Tuesday, in the land of the Afghan Taliban, a few good men decided to take a...
Centre vs provinces
Updated 10 Jun, 2026

Centre vs provinces

The reason the centre finds itself in this position is rooted in its failure to expand the tax net and boost revenues.
Party in crisis
10 Jun, 2026

Party in crisis

THE young KP chief minister must be starting to realise just how thorny a seat he occupies. There has been a flurry...
Varsity woes
10 Jun, 2026

Varsity woes

FINANCIAL crises affecting public sector universities across Pakistan are now having an impact on academic...