Colombo: Former India Under-19 World Cup-winning cricketer Manjot Kalra has been arrested in Sri Lanka over alleged involvement in a match-fixing-related case connected with the Jaffna Kings during the Lanka Premier League (LPL).
Kalra, who was part of India’s victorious Under-19 World Cup squad in 2018 and is one of the co-owners of the Jaffna Kings franchise, was reportedly taken into custody by Sri Lanka’s Police Special Investigation Unit (SIU) for the Prevention of Offences Relating to Sports.
According to local media reports from Colombo, the 27-year-old was arrested on Friday after allegations that he attempted to induce a player into engaging in corrupt practices. Another Indian national, identified as Yuvraj Pushpa, was also arrested in connection with the same investigation.
Court remands Kalra in judicial custody
Following his arrest, Kalra was produced before a magistrate in Sri Lanka. Reports stated that the court remanded him in judicial custody until July 31 while investigations continue.
The authorities are examining allegations related to possible violations under Sri Lanka’s sports corruption laws. The investigation is being handled by the SIU, which works specifically on cases involving offences connected with match-fixing and unethical practices in sports.
The arrest has drawn attention because of Kalra’s background as a former India Under-19 international and his association with a professional franchise in a major T20 league.
Sri Lanka Cricket assures fair conduct of LPL
Sri Lanka Cricket has stated that the ongoing Lanka Premier League will continue as scheduled despite the developments.
The board said the arrests would not impact the tournament and reiterated its commitment to protecting the integrity of the competition. The LPL 2026 began on Friday, with Sri Lanka Cricket emphasising that strict anti-corruption measures are already in place.
In an official statement, Sri Lanka Cricket said it would provide full cooperation to the Special Investigation Unit during the probe.
The board also maintained that it follows a zero-tolerance policy towards corruption, misconduct, and any activities that could damage the credibility of the sport.
Anti-corruption measures strengthened for tournament
Sri Lanka Cricket revealed that its Anti-Corruption Unit has been working closely with government authorities to strengthen safeguards during the Lanka Premier League.
The board has also engaged Integrity Mentors, an independent organisation specialising in sports integrity and anti-corruption education, to provide support throughout the tournament.
These measures include educating players and officials about corruption risks, monitoring suspicious activities, and ensuring that all stakeholders involved in the league follow strict ethical guidelines.
SLC said the objective is to conduct the tournament in a transparent environment and maintain confidence among players, fans, and cricket authorities.
Kalra’s rise after Under-19 World Cup success
Manjot Kalra became a recognised name in Indian cricket after playing a starring role in India’s triumph at the 2018 ICC Under-19 World Cup.
In the final against Australia, Kalra produced a memorable performance by scoring an unbeaten century, helping India chase down the target comfortably and secure the title under captain Prithvi Shaw.
His innings in the final was one of the highlights of the tournament and established him as one of India’s promising young batting talents.
However, despite early success at the junior level, Kalra’s progress in senior cricket was limited. He later moved towards business and sports investments, eventually becoming associated with the Jaffna Kings franchise in the Lanka Premier League.
Growing concerns over corruption in franchise cricket
The latest development has once again highlighted the importance of maintaining strict integrity standards in franchise-based cricket leagues around the world.
With the rapid growth of T20 competitions, cricket boards and governing bodies have increased their focus on preventing corruption. Anti-corruption units regularly monitor player interactions, team officials, and other stakeholders to protect the credibility of the game.
Match-fixing allegations have previously affected several cricket tournaments globally, leading authorities to introduce stronger regulations and awareness programmes.
Conclusion
The arrest of Manjot Kalra has created a significant controversy around the Lanka Premier League, given his past association with Indian cricket and his role as a franchise owner.
While the investigation is ongoing and allegations are yet to be proven, Sri Lanka Cricket has assured that the tournament will continue without disruption. The authorities’ focus will now remain on a fair and transparent investigation while ensuring that the integrity of the league is protected.
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