IPL 2020: A player reports corrupt approach; Anti-Corruption Unit starts its investigation

The 13th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) has got off to a scintillating start. In the first couple of weeks, there has already been so much action with the matches going down the wire. However, with this being a huge tournament, there is also a threat of players being approached for fixing by the bookies. Rather the BCCI Anti Corruption (ACU) Chief Ajit Singh had said that the bookies have already reached Dubai.

But he had also expressed confidence of the tournament going along smoothly as a total of three ACU teams are working hard. He had also stated that with the players in the bubble, it has been tough for them to interact with the players. Meanwhile, a player in the IPL has reported a corrupt approach and has put the ACU on a high alert.

ACU Chief Ajit Singh confirmed the development to the reporters and the investigation is in progress at the moment. “Yes (a player has reported approach). We are tracking him. It will take some time,” Singh said according to News18 when asked if the alleged corruptor has been nabbed. Also, as per the Anti-Corruption protocols, the name of the concerned player and the franchise is not revealed for confidentiality purposes.

All the players aware of the protocols, says BCCI official

Meanwhile, a BCCI official has cleared that the players across all levels are aware of the protocols and attended multiple anti-corruption classes. The player who was approached sensed something is fishy soon and he accordingly took the required step.

“The best part is that the player who was approached immediately sensed that something is fishy. He had a suspicion and he immediately shared his concerns with the ACU. Every player, even those who have come from the U-19s are well aware of each and every anti-corruption protocols,” the BCCI close to the developments said.

Ajit Singh is heading an 8-man team in the UAEto avoid such corrupt practices even as the BCCI has tied up with UK-based company Sportradar, which will offer its “integrity services” to prevent betting and other corrupt practices during the cash-rich league.