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The International Cricket Council (ICC) has imposed a six-year ban on Sunny Dhillon, a former assistant coach of the Pune Devils in the Abu Dhabi T10 league, for breaching the Emirates Cricket Board (ECB) Anti-Corruption Code. The ban is backdated to September 13, 2023, when Dhillon was provisionally suspended.
Charges and Findings
Dhillon was among eight individuals charged last year for corruption-related offenses during the 2021 Abu Dhabi T10 league. The charges included attempts to influence match outcomes. The investigation revealed Dhillon’s involvement in:
- Article 2.1.1: Attempting to fix, contrive, or improperly influence matches or aspects of matches.
- Article 2.4.4: Failing to disclose approaches or invitations related to corrupt conduct.
- Article 2.4.6: Refusing to cooperate with the investigation by the Designated Anti-Corruption Official (DACO).
Background and Other Individuals Involved
The case against Dhillon was part of a larger anti-corruption crackdown that implicated multiple individuals connected to the Pune Devils franchise, including:
- Nasir Hossain: Former Bangladesh allrounder, banned for two years in January 2024.
- Ashar Zaidi: Batting coach.
- Krishan Kumar Chaudhary and Parag Sanghvi: Co-owners of Pune Devils.
- Shadab Ahamed: Team manager.
Zaidi, Chaudhary, and Sanghvi admitted their involvement and were handed bans in August 2024.
ICC Statement
“These efforts were disrupted by the ICC and the Designated Anti-Corruption Official (DACO) under the ECB’s Code for the tournament,” the ICC said in a release. After a full hearing and written and oral arguments, Dhillon was found guilty and issued a six-year ban.
Pune Devils and Their T10 Exit
The 2021 Abu Dhabi T10 was the final appearance of the Pune Devils in the tournament. The team finished last, winning just one of their six matches.
The ICC’s decision underscores its commitment to maintaining the integrity of cricket, ensuring individuals involved in corruption are held accountable. This ban serves as a stern warning to all those who might consider engaging in similar activities.
