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The Lanka T10 League, inaugurated this year, has been hit by a major controversy as Prem Thakkar, an Indian-origin co-owner of the Galle Marvels franchise, was arrested on Thursday by Sri Lanka’s sports police for alleged involvement in match-fixing.
Prem Thakkar Arrested Following Player Complaints
Prem Thakkar’s arrest followed complaints lodged by several players, including local Sri Lankans and an overseas West Indian cricketer, who claimed Thakkar approached them with offers to engage in fixing matches. The players rejected his propositions and reported the matter to the tournament’s anti-corruption unit.
After a detailed investigation, Thakkar was taken into custody and is set to be presented in court on Friday, where further legal proceedings will determine the next steps.
Impact on the Lanka T10 League
The Lanka T10 League 2024, which began on December 11 at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, has been overshadowed by this scandal. This controversy marks a significant setback for the fledgling league, which had hoped to bring a fresh, fast-paced format to cricket in Sri Lanka.
Authorities have launched a deeper probe to uncover any broader corruption nexus. This is not the first time Sri Lankan cricket has faced scrutiny, with previous corruption scandals marring the sport’s integrity.
Past Corruption Cases in Sri Lankan Cricket
The arrest of Prem Thakkar adds to Sri Lanka cricket’s growing list of controversies:
- Earlier this year, spinner Praveen Jayawickrama was handed a one-year ban by the ICC, with six months suspended, for violating the ICC Anti-Corruption Code. Jayawickrama failed to report a corrupt approach and delayed the investigation process.
- Sri Lanka Cricket has been under increased surveillance in recent years as corruption concerns continue to surface.
Galle Marvels and the Tournament’s Future
The Galle Marvels, one of six teams in the Lanka T10 League, now find themselves embroiled in a scandal that could tarnish the tournament’s reputation. The league had aimed to provide a platform for local and international players to showcase their talent, but this controversy has cast a shadow over its inaugural season.
Sri Lanka Cricket, along with the anti-corruption unit, has reiterated its commitment to eradicating corruption and ensuring the integrity of the game.
As the investigation unfolds, the arrest of Prem Thakkar serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges cricket faces globally in maintaining fair play. The cricketing community awaits further updates on the case and the measures that will be taken to safeguard the sport.
