After TNPL, BCCI ACU Suspect KPL Players Being Approached for Fixing

The domestic leagues in Tamil Nadu (TNPL) and Karnataka (KPL) have been reported of having players approached for fixing. Initially, the players in TNPL reported of being approached by suspicious people, to which the BCCI Anti Corruption Unit (ACU), on Monday, launched an inquiry into the matter. The inquiry will be set up to find out more of the ‘people’ who made the approach.

“It is an inquiry into who has made an approach,” Ajit Singh, head of ACU, told ESPNcricinfo on Monday. “The players have told us we have received these messages, so it is not an inquiry against the player.”

“There were messages who is going to bat first in the match, basically seeking (match related) information. We presume it’s coming from those who are interested in betting,” he continued.

Hardly a day after setting up the inquiry, the BCCI ACU reported that some players from a similar league in Karnataka, KPL, were made similar suspicious approach.

“Some of the players, involved in the KPL, have reported some instances where unknown people tried to be friendly with them via WhatsApp. We have taken note of their complaint and are looking into the matter,” BCCI ACU chief Ajit Singh was quoted as saying by Sportstar.

The smaller leagues might be easier for the bookies to approach with the kind of players involved, but a way to stop these kind of practices has to be found. TNCA, the organizers of the TNPL, released a statement on the issue after allegations of spot fixing.

“Having received information of acts that would constitute, if accurate, offences under the regulatory framework of the TNPL, the TNCA had appointed a committee to enquire into the issue and submit a report and until the Committee has been afforded an opportunity to thoroughly examine the allegations and submit their report, the TNCA is unable to make any statements on the specifics of the allegations concerning teams, players or officials.”