Speculation that significant numbers of Chinese players may have been colluding on the internet poker site Pokerstars.com appeared to be confirmed this week when the company e-mailed the following notice to China-based players.
“Pokerstars.com has introduced a new security feature that prevents players from certain countries playing at the same ring game table.
“This restriction means that only one player from each of these countries is able to play at the same ring game table. You are able to play at any ring game table you wish but once you are seated no other player from your country will be able to join the table. Similarly, if another player from your country is seated, you will be unable to join that table until they leave.
“We regret the inconvenience that this has caused you but this policy has been implemented to enhance the integrity of the games.”
The present restriction was preceded by an initiative earlier this year where Pokerstars.com instituted restrictions on Chinese players in their sit-and-go tournaments and double-or-nothing games.