ICC launches corruption probe into Canada T20 World Cup match

The International Cricket Council’s Anti-Corruption Unit (ACU) has launched an investigation into allegations of corruption involving Cricket Canada, including claims connected to a match during the recent men’s T20 World Cup held in India and Sri Lanka.

According to ESPNcricinfo, the ACU is currently handling two active investigations related to Cricket Canada. These probes reportedly cover possible breaches of the ICC’s anti-corruption code at both international and domestic levels.

The allegations were brought to public attention through the documentary Corruption, Crime and Cricket, produced by Canadian investigative program The Fifth Estate and aired by the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC). The 43-minute report raises concerns about governance and integrity issues within Canadian cricket.

One of the central claims highlighted in the documentary relates to Canada’s T20 World Cup match against New Zealand. It focuses on a specific phase of the game when captain Dilpreet Bajwa, then 22, was introduced into the bowling attack during New Zealand’s chase. At that stage, New Zealand were 35 for 2.

The report notes that Canada had initially relied on pace bowlers Jaskaran Singh and Dilon Heyliger, who conceded runs under pressure. Spin was introduced early, with Saad bin Zafar delivering a wicket-maiden before Bajwa came into the attack in the fifth over. His over included a no-ball, a wide, and 15 runs conceded, which has drawn scrutiny as part of the broader investigation.

A second line of inquiry stems from an audio recording involving former Canada coach Khurram Chohan. In the recording, he alleges that senior Cricket Canada officials pressured him to select specific players for the national team. The same audio also contains claims of attempted match-fixing, although investigators face challenges in verifying the evidence.

ICC Integrity Unit interim general manager Andrew Ephgrave confirmed awareness of the documentary, stating that the ACU follows established procedures and cannot comment on ongoing investigations. He emphasized that the unit operates through intelligence, prevention, education, and investigation functions to protect the integrity of the sport.

The documentary further includes statements from former coach Pubudu Dassanayake, who alleges similar interference in squad selection ahead of the 2024 T20 World Cup. He is currently pursuing legal action against Cricket Canada for wrongful dismissal.

Cricket Canada has recently faced significant administrative instability, including leadership changes and financial concerns. The organization has also been under scrutiny over delayed payments to players and contractual issues leading up to the latest T20 World Cup.

While the documentary also references alleged links to organized crime, the ICC has clarified that such matters fall outside the scope of the Anti-Corruption Unit and are instead the responsibility of law enforcement agencies.

The investigation into Cricket Canada remains ongoing as authorities continue to examine the various allegations raised.