Investigation confirms match-fixing in BPL

A recent investigation has confirmed that multiple teams and players were involved in match-fixing in the last edition Bangladesh Premier League (BPL). The findings have raised serious questions about the integrity and governance of the league.

A report by Prothom Alo revealed that the BPL investigation committee identified 36 unusual events in the previous season. These incidents ranged from suspicious batting and bowling patterns. The probe flagged 10-12 cricketers, including two current Bangladesh internationals, a pacer and an off-spinner. Several domestic players were also found deliberately bowling wides and delivering questionable balls to manipulate match outcomes.

The investigation categorised players according to the strength of the evidence against them. Three to four players were marked as ‘highly flagged’, with strong evidence linking them directly to corrupt practices. Others were classified as ‘medium’ or ‘low flagged’, meaning there was some suspicion, though not enough to conclude guilt conclusively. Notably, one accused player was part of Bangladesh’s recent Sri Lanka tour squad, raising concerns about potential risks to the national team.

Most implicated cricketers are over 35, making it unlikely they will return to international cricket. Still, the allegations have cast a long shadow over their careers. The list also included a member of the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) sub-committee, who was found to have facilitated deals with franchises involved in fixing. Officials from Durbar Rajshahi, Sylhet Strikers, and Dhaka Capitals admitted their roles in manipulating matches.

The investigation is expected to recommend that all accused players, team officials, and managers remain barred from cricket until they can prove their innocence. The probe also extended to broadcast partners, with some TV channels allegedly airing betting-related advertisements, reportedly earning 170–180 crore taka illegally from such promotions. These revelations have created a major controversy in Bangladesh cricket, putting the spotlight on league administration and the measures needed to restore public trust.