BPL Spot-Fixing Scandal: 400 Crore Taka Offered to Lose a Match

Bangladesh cricket has been shaken by a series of corruption scandals surrounding the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL). The latest findings from the spot-fixing investigation have revealed shocking details, including a report that bookmakers offered a franchise 400 crore taka to deliberately lose a single match.

Investigation Overview

• The independent three-member investigation committee was formed in February under former BCB President Faruk Ahmed.
• Chair: Former Appellate Division Judge Mirza Hosein Haider
• Members: Internationally renowned lawyer Dr. Khaled H. Chowdhury and former cricketer Shakil Kasem

The committee has conducted over 300 hours of interrogation, producing more than 3,000 pages of transcripts. The preliminary report will be submitted to BCB President Aminul Islam next week.

Purpose of Preliminary Report:

• Alert BCB to prevent future match-fixing
• Provide advice to implement measures before the new season

Final Report:

• Will contain names of accused players, coaches, and franchises along with full details of allegations

Findings

Historical Context

• The investigation uncovered over 140 suspicious incidents in the past four BPL seasons
• More than 60 local and foreign players are suspected, with some names appearing multiple times

Most Sensational Revelation

During the 2023–24 season, a franchise was offered 400 crore taka to lose a match.

• Whether the franchise accepted the bribe is unconfirmed
• However, the team did lose the match and did not report the offer to BCB’s Anti-Corruption Unit

Recommendations

1. Reorganisation of BCB Anti-Corruption Unit:
   • Active involvement from domestic leagues to national competitions
   • Former ICC official Alex Marshall appointed as head
2. New Laws Against Online Betting:
   • Legal framework to allow BCB to take action against offenders independently
3. Forensic Investigation:
   • Review of bank accounts and financial transactions
   • Address gaps in cooperation from the Anti-Corruption Unit, including non-sharing of ICC-provided suspect lists

Commentary from Dr. Khaled H. Chowdhury

“The preliminary report is mainly to warn and advise BCB so that effective measures can prevent match-fixing before the new season. The final report will include names of accused players, coaches, and franchises.”

This scandal exposes systemic vulnerabilities in BPL management, broadcasting oversight, and player integrity, underscoring the urgent need for reform at all levels of Bangladesh cricket.

Source: Prothom Alo