JUMBOS PLAY BALL TO KICK OUT BETTING
BANGKOK: Elephants kicked off World Cup fever in Thailand’s ancient capital of Ayutthaya, playing a match to raise awareness against illegal gambling. Nine elephants, painted with the flags of countries competing in Russia, passed the ball to each other and swerved around the field in a 15-minute match against students from a local school. Organisers said they wanted to show students the World Cup was more about enjoying the sport than betting on teams. “They’re here to bring colour and joy, and create awareness that we can enjoy the World Cup without gambling and just cheer for the soccer players,” said Reangthongbaht Meephan, deputy chief of the Ayutthaya Elephant Palace and Royal Kraal. Illegal gambling on the World Cup is prevalent in countries like Thailand and Malaysia. Betting or promoting gambling on football is a criminal offence in Thailand, but those who get caught often face only a small fine of $31.17. If children are involved, their parents can face a $311.72 fine or three months in jail.