Big Breaking During IPL: BCCI Bans Team Owner Over Match Fixing Allegations

In a significant move to uphold the integrity of domestic cricket, BCCI Ombudsman Justice (Retd) Arun Mishra has banned Gurmeet Singh Bhamrah, a former co-owner of SoBo Supersonics in the Mumbai T20 League, for making a corrupt approach to players Dhawal Kulkarni and Bhavin Thakkar during the 2019 edition of the tournament.

While the exact duration of the ban hasn't been specified in the order, it is expected to range anywhere between five years to a life ban under the BCCI's anti-corruption code. Bhamrah, who was also associated with Global T20 Canada in the past, is no longer connected with the Mumbai T20 League, which is all set to return this year after a Covid-enforced hiatus.

Fixing Attempt Revealed Through Transcript

The case came to light when Bhavin Thakkar revealed that a man named Sonu Vasan had approached him during the 2019 season with a suspicious offer. According to the order, Vasan had acted at Bhamrah's behest, offering Thakkar money and other incentives in exchange for manipulating the outcome of matches.

“Transcript of the conversation shows that Sonu Vasan offered money and other benefits to Bhavin Thakkar at the behest of the respondent," the order noted. “Upon meriting the entire offer that he made on behalf of the respondent, Sonu Vasan told Bhavin Thakkar whatever call Thakkar wishes to take in the matter, Vasan would relay it back to the respondent.”

Dhawal Kulkarni Also Approached

Dhawal Kulkarni, a seasoned fast bowler and a former India international, was also reportedly approached during the same tournament. The order mentions that Kulkarni's statement was recorded by the Anti-Corruption Unit (ACU), although specific details of his account were not disclosed. Kulkarni recently called time on his career after playing a pivotal role in Mumbai’s 42nd Ranji Trophy triumph in March 2024.

This development serves as a sobering reminder that despite ongoing efforts, corruption continues to knock on the doors of Indian domestic cricket. With the Mumbai T20 League making a comeback, the BCCI's stern stance sends out a strong message: there will be zero tolerance for those attempting to compromise the spirit of the game.