Who is Abishek Porel? Delhi Capitals cricketer arrested over rape allegations

Delhi Capitals player Abishek Porel has been arrested in connection with a criminal case registered on a medical student’s complaint alleging rape, criminal intimidation and other offences, police said.

The Bengal cricketer was arrested from Emami City under the Dum Dum Police Station area, according to Hooghly Rural police SP Kunwar Bhushan Singh. The case follows a complaint filed by the woman in June.

The Calcutta High Court had earlier directed police to arrest Porel in connection with the case. Porel has denied the allegations.

What the complaint alleges

According to the complaint, the woman said she and Porel was in a relationship for around three years. She alleged that differences developed between them last year, after which Porel began "distancing" himself from her.

The woman further alleged that Porel had promised to marry her but later refused to do so. She accused him of having sexual intercourse with her on the promise of marriage and also alleged assault and criminal intimidation.

The FIR also contains allegations of confinement and denial of food. It states, “Abishek Porel illegally confined the complainant. He denied her food and deliberately kept her isolated. As a result... the complainant became physically weak and was unable to walk properly. Despite having a flight... she was compelled to seek immediate medical attention due to the injuries sustained," the FIR against Porel read.

Police investigation underway

Police have begun investigating the allegations following the complaint.

"We have received a complaint and started an investigation," a police official told PTI.

The allegations against Porel remain subject to investigation and legal proceedings.

Porel's cricket career

Porel, a left-handed top-order batter, has been part of the Delhi Capitals setup in the IPL since 2023. He scored 108 runs in four innings for the franchise last season.

He made his first-class debut for Bengal during the 2021-22 season and has since played 32 first-class and 23 List A matches.

The cricketer has also travelled with the India A team to the UK and Australia.