KPL: KSCA suspends Belagavi Panthers over spot-fixing scandal

Karnataka Premier League – KPL franchise- Belagavi Panthers has been grabbing the headlines for all the wrong reasons in recent times. After being involved in the spot-fixing scandal, Belagavi Panthers have found themselves in more trouble with the recent statement issued by the KSCA.

Karnataka Cricket Association on Thursday announced its decision of suspending the Belagavi Panthers franchise. The KSCA has also stated that any players, match officials or umpires who have been arrested in connection with the incident based on the first impression will be suspended with immediate effect. Severe actions would be taken against each individual if they are found guilty.

The State Association Association has issued a statement regarding the incident which states, “Based on the initial investigation report, the KSCA has suspended the owners of the franchise – Belagavi Panthers, one of the franchises of the Karnataka Premier League (KPL). In case they are found guilty, their franchise will be terminated,” stated KSCA according to the media release.

Six people have been arrested in KPL fixing scandal

So far six people have been arrested over the scandal that came under the limelight with the arrest of Ali Ashfaq Thara recently. Belagavi Panthers’ owner Ali Ashfaq is among the six people who have already been arrested in connection with the spot-fixing scandal.

Two prominent first-class cricketers– CM Gautam and his Karnataka teammate Abrar Qazi are also among the people who have been arrested. As per reports, the duo accepted money to underperform in Karnataka Premier League matches in the previous season.

The State Association has also affirmed that it has been extending all possible cooperations to the investigating police in unearthing any such incidents. All possible efforts have been made to take stern actions against all individuals who been involved in corrupt practices. KSCA further clarified the fact that they cannot accept any illegal activities such as betting and match-fixing.

Betting and match-fixing have always been an inseparable part of the game for many years. In recent times, Bangladesh skipper Shakib Al Hasan was banned for two years by the ICC for breaching Anti Corruption Code. Shakib accepted three charges of failing to disclose approaches to engage in corrupt conduct, all of which took place in 2018. The 32-year-old has to serve the ban for two years, including one year of suspension, for failing to report approaches by suspected Indian bookie Deepak Aggarwal to the International Cricket Council’s Anti-Corruption Unit.