BCCI ACU reveals corrupt approach in Karnataka Premier League after TNPL controversy
BCCI ACU confirmed that several players have sent the screenshots of WhatsApp conversations, where unknown people - posing as fans - sought information about matches and team combinations. There were allegations of malpractices in the KPL last year too and ACU have kept a close eye on the league.
Ever since Tamil Nadu Premier League corrupt approach controversy came into public understanding, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI)’s Anti-Corruption Unit (ACU) have received some information about players being approached by unidentified people in the Karnataka Premier League as well. Some ACU officials have confirmed to Sportstar that quite a few players in the KPL this season reported suspicious approaches and players have sent the ACU screenshots of WhatsApp conversations.
“Some of the players, involved in the KPL, have reported some instances where unknown people tried to be friendly with them via WhatsApp. We have taken note of their complaint and are looking into the matter,” BCCI ACU chief Ajit Singh said, reported Sportstar.
“It is a positive sign that the players are coming forward and reporting any suspicious activities. We are looking into all the aspects,” he said.
A source revealed that bookies usually make lesser-known players their targets.
“For the franchise leagues, the bookies usually make lesser-known players who hail from the districts as the soft targets,” a source said.
Meanwhile, Karnataka State Cricket Association stated that they haven't recieved any information from the ACU. They, however, had taken some stringnent actions this year as apart from the four ACU officials from the BCCI, there was also one Team Integrity Officer (TIO), appointed by the KSCA, embedded with each KPL team.
"We have not got any official communication in this regard. Once we do, we will take further action," said KSCA Secretary R. Sudhakar Rao.
“They stay with the team throughout the tournament and are told to report any suspicious activity either to us or directly to the BCCI ACU. So far, we have not received any reports,” said KSCA spokesperson Vinay Mruthyunjaya.