Cricketer denies drug smuggling

Chris Lewis pleaded not guilty to trying to import cocaine

Former England cricketer Chris Lewis has denied trying to smuggle cocaine with an estimated street value of £200,000 into the UK.

Mr Lewis, 41, appeared at Croydon Crown Court with co-defendant basketball player Chad Kirnon, 27.

The two men were arrested at Gatwick airport when 9lb (4kg) of the drug was found hidden in baggage which arrived from St Lucia on 8 December.

Mr Kirnon has also pleaded not guilty to the same charge.

Mr Lewis, of Bruce Road, Brent, north London, and Mr Kirnon, of Carnegie Street, Islington, north London were remanded in custody.

Judge Warwick McKinnon listed their trial for 11 May.

All-rounder Mr Lewis played 32 Tests and 53 one-day internationals. He now works as a cricket coach.

The UK Border Agency said Class A drugs were found in baggage removed from a flight at the West Sussex airport.

The cocaine, which was concealed in liquid form in fruit tins, was discovered as part of routine checks on a flight that arrived at 0600 GMT.

Mr Lewis, who was born in Guyana, claimed 93 wickets during his England Test career and finished with a Test batting average of 23.

He retired from county cricket in 2000 because of a persistent hip injury after spells with Leicestershire, Nottinghamshire and Surrey.

He rejoined Surrey to play in 20-over matches for the 2008 season.