Match-fixing rumours are back in the spotlight in international cricket. This time, people are worried it took a toll on the recently concluded T20 World Cup, the sport’s biggest stage. The ICC’s Anti-Corruption Unit is looking into Cricket Canada for allegedly breaking the anti-corruption code. The investigation focuses on their T20 World Cup game against New Zealand on February 17, 2026, at Chepauk Stadium in Chennai.
In the match played in Chennai, Canada batted first and scored 173/4, which New Zealand achieved in just 15.1 overs for the loss of 8 wickets. According to ESPNcricinfo, the ACU is conducting two active investigations into allegations of corruption at both the international and domestic levels.
These allegations were exposed in a 43-minute documentary, “Corruption, Crime and Cricket,” produced by the Canadian investigative program “The Fifth Estate.” According to the documentary, the fifth over of New Zealand’s innings is particularly under scrutiny. It was bowled by captain Dilpreet Bajwa. Bajwa, who was appointed captain just three weeks before the tournament, began the over with a no-ball and a leg-side wide, conceding a total of 15 runs. This particular over is being linked to spot-fixing.
What does ICC have to say?
Andrew Ephgrave, interim General Manager of the ICC’s Integrity Unit, confirmed that the ACU is aware of the claims made in the documentary. He clarified that, in accordance with established procedures, the ACU is not in a position to comment on any specific allegations. Ephgrave stated that the ICC’s Anti-Corruption Unit takes action only when there is credible evidence to suggest a threat to the integrity of the game. He further stated that the cases of organized crime and threats mentioned in the documentary are the responsibility of law enforcement agencies.
The second investigation concerns a leaked phone recording involving former coach Khurram Chauhan. In this recording, Chauhan alleges that senior board members pressured him to select specific players. According to reports, the audio also includes claims of attempts to fix matches. Additionally, another former coach, Pubudu Dassanayake, has alleged similar pressure in team selection ahead of the 2024 T20 World Cup. Dassanayake claims he was threatened with dismissal if he did not comply, and has now sued the board for “wrongful dismissal.”
Arvinder Singh Khusa was recently elected as the new president of Cricket Canada amid administrative turmoil. He replaced Amjad Bajwa and has emphasised strengthening integrity and accountability within the organization. Previously, the board dismissed former CEO Salman Khan, who failed to disclose his past criminal record at the time of his appointment and was also accused of theft and fraud. The documentary also addresses financial issues such as delayed player prize money payments and the lack of contracts.
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