DDCA seeks BCCI probe into DPL fixing claims, says allegations remain unverified

The Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) Tuesday sought a formal investigation into allegations of corruption and match-related irregularities in the Delhi Premier League (DPL), while stressing that the claims circulating following a media sting remained unverified and should not be treated as established facts.

The controversy relates to allegations made in a sting operation concerning the recently concluded third edition of the DPL. DDCA secretary Ashok Sharma said the association had written to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), seeking its intervention and guidance on the course of action. The association said it wanted the allegations examined by the appropriate authority rather than reaching conclusions on the basis of material circulating publicly.

Fixing approach reported

Separately, wicketkeeper-batter Vansh Bedi, who represented Central Delhi Kings in the tournament, had reported an alleged corrupt approach made to him by a cricketer from a neighbouring state. DDCA officials said Bedi promptly informed the anti-corruption unit about the approach, following which it was formally documented.

The association said Security Liaison Officers had been attached to teams during the tournament and maintained that anti-corruption arrangements were in place during the competition.

The sting operation, meanwhile, contained allegations relating to a DPL match between Central Delhi Kings and North Delhi Strikers at the Arun Jaitley Stadium. Among the claims were purported disclosures by former Ranji Trophy cricketer Rachit Bhatia concerning information allegedly shared ahead of the toss.

DDCA, however, cautioned against treating statements in the sting as proof of wrongdoing and said the veracity, context and circumstances surrounding the allegations would have to be established through an investigation.

BCCI guidance sought

Sharma confirmed that the DDCA had approached the BCCI and would proceed in accordance with the national cricket board’s guidance. The association has sought an inquiry into the allegations so that the facts can be independently established.

The development has brought the DPL’s anti-corruption mechanisms under scrutiny shortly after the conclusion of its third season. The DDCA had issued a BCCI Anti-Corruption Code advisory for DPL-3 in August as part of measures governing players and others associated with the tournament.

Central Delhi Kings finished runners-up in the latest edition after losing to South Delhi Superstarz in the final. Bedi had earlier represented Purani Dilli 6 in the DPL and was also part of the Chennai Super Kings set-up in the Indian Premier League.

The DDCA has maintained that no individual should be presumed guilty on the basis of allegations alone and that any action should follow a proper investigation and findings by the competent authorities.