10 cricketers who became victims of false rumours

Sachin Tendulkar and Mark Mascarenhas. (Photo source: X)

Cricketers earn fame by scoring runs, taking wickets, and breaking records. However, at times, they find themselves in the spotlight for the wrong reasons, targeted by rumours and controversies that often turn out to be baseless. These false allegations, whether personal or professional, have impacted the reputations of some of the most well-known names in cricket. Here let us take a look at ten famous cricketers who were targeted by false or unproven rumours.

Top 10 cricketers who became victims of false rumours

MS Dhoni – Amrapali Scam & Match Fixing

Former Indian captain MS Dhoni was dragged into the Amrapali real estate scam after being associated as the brand ambassador for the group. Though the Supreme Court found the builder guilty of diverting homebuyers’ money, Dhoni himself was never accused of any wrongdoing. He was also linked to the 2013 IPL match-fixing scandal due to his captaincy of Chennai Super Kings, whose team principal Gurunath Meiyappan was found guilty. However, Dhoni was never proven guilty. The Ranchi-born led CSK in 2025 edition of the IPL, in lieu of Ruturaj Gaikwad.

Sandeep Lamichhane – Rape Allegation (Not Guilty)

Nepal’s star spinner Sandeep Lamichhane faced serious rape allegations in 2022 that led to his arrest and suspension. The case attracted massive media attention. However, after a thorough investigation and court proceedings, Lamichhane was acquitted in 2023, allowing him to resume his cricketing career.

Kevin Pietersen – Leaking Team Strategy (2012)

In 2012, Kevin Pietersen was accused of leaking England team strategies to the South African team during their tour of England. The allegations included sending text messages about how to dismiss then-captain Andrew Strauss. Pietersen denied any intentional wrongdoing. Though the controversy created a rift within the team, there was no conclusive proof against him. Pietersen is currently the mentor at the Indian Premier League franchise Delhi Capitals.

Ravindra Jadeja – Ball Tampering (2017)

During a Test match in 2017, Ravindra Jadeja was seen applying ointment to his spinning finger, which led to speculation of ball tampering. Some accused him of trying to alter the condition of the ball. However, it was later clarified that the ointment was for medical reasons, to reduce swelling. ICC fined him for breaching conduct, but no tampering was proven. Jadeja is one of the best all-rounders of all-time, and holds the records for being the No. 1 ranked for the longest time.

Babar Azam – Harassment Case (2022)

Pakistan’s former captain Babar Azam was accused of sexual harassment and exploitation by a woman named Hamiza Mukhtar in 2022. She claimed Babar made false promises of marriage and forced her into an abortion. The allegations caused an uproar, but the woman later withdrew the case. No evidence was found, and no legal action was taken against Babar. The star cricketer is currently the most important part of the Men in Green’s batting unit.

Sachin Tendulkar – Panama Papers Rumour

The 2016 Panama Papers leak briefly linked cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar to offshore accounts through a now-defunct company in the British Virgin Islands. The documents did not prove any illegal activity or tax evasion, and Tendulkar faced no official charges. The controversy faded quickly due to lack of evidence. The greatest batter of the world has called it a time on the game, but still holds a plethora of records in the annals of cricketing history.

Mohammed Shami – Match Fixing & Domestic Violence (2018)

Indian fast bowler Mohammed Shami was accused by his wife Hasin Jahan of domestic violence and match-fixing in 2018. The allegations led the BCCI to temporarily withhold his central contract. However, after an internal investigation, the BCCI’s Anti-Corruption Unit cleared Shami of match-fixing charges. He was later reinstated without any official punishment. The Amroha-born is currently the most dependable bowlers for the Indian team.

Shoaib Malik – Match Fixing (2000s)

In the early 2000s, Shoaib Malik’s name surfaced in match-fixing discussions, though no formal charges were ever made. The lack of evidence meant the allegations remained mere speculation. Malik has always denied any involvement in fixing and continued to play for Pakistan for many more years. The all-rounder has now retired, and features on air in commentary and other roles.

Hardik Pandya – Fake Tweet & Comments

Hardik Pandya was falsely accused of making derogatory remarks against Dr. B. R. Ambedkar, the man behind drafting the Constitution of the Republic of India, after a fake tweet went viral in 2017. The tweet originated from a parody account impersonating Pandya and created massive backlash before being debunked. Pandya publicly clarified that he had nothing to do with the comment. He has since moved on from the incident to become one of the most dependable all-rounders in the international circuit.

AB de Villiers – Spot Fixing Accusation (Fake WhatsApp Screenshot)

South African legend AB de Villiers was falsely linked to spot-fixing when an edited WhatsApp screenshot circulated online. The image allegedly showed him discussing fixing-related topics, but it was quickly proven to be fake. De Villiers dismissed the accusation, and no investigation was pursued. The former cricketer now finds time to contribute to the sport in broadcasting roles. He also has a YouTube channel, where he shares his analysis on ongoing games.

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