BCCI action against match-fixing: Franchise owner banned while IPL 2025 reaches halfway

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has taken a firm stance against corruption by imposing a lifetime ban on Gurmeet Singh Bhamrah, a former co-owner of the SoBo Supersonics in the Mumbai T20 League.

The disciplinary move comes at the halfway point of IPL 2025, sending a clear signal of zero tolerance towards any breach of cricket’s integrity.

Lifetime ban for 2019 match-fixing attempt

The decision followed an extensive investigation by the BCCI’s Anti-Corruption Unit (ACU) into a 2019 match-fixing attempt.

Justice Arun Mishra, BCCI Ombudsman, found Bhamrah guilty of directing a third party to approach players Dhawal Kulkarni and Bhavin Thakkar with illicit offers to underperform. The move, considered a grave violation under the BCCI Anti-Corruption Code, resulted in the severest punishment available.

Thakkar was approached by one Sonu Vasan, who acted on Bhamrah’s instructions, offering him monetary benefits and asking for underperformance in return.

The transcripts reviewed by the ACU indicated that Bhamrah, referred to as “Paaji,” was prepared to join in direct calls with the players had they agreed to the fix. Kulkarni’s statement was recorded, though specific details were not disclosed.

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Wider implications and BCCI's anti-corruption code

According to the ACU Code, offences under Articles 2.1.3 and 2.1.4 — involving corrupt approaches and attempts to fix matches — attract penalties ranging from five years to a lifetime ban.

Bhamrah, also previously linked to the now-defunct GT20 Canada, has now been permanently barred from any cricket activity under BCCI’s jurisdiction.

This ban is the latest in a series of measures to safeguard the sport. The Mumbai T20 League, currently being revived after a pandemic-induced hiatus, has distanced itself from Bhamrah’s previous involvement.

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Integrity under spotlight as IPL 2025 continues

While the IPL 2025 season gathers momentum, the BCCI’s action serves as a reminder that vigilance remains high.

The governing body’s firm response reinforces its commitment to fair play, particularly in domestic tournaments where young talent is most vulnerable.

This mid-season enforcement is expected to strengthen trust among players and fans alike, ensuring that the sanctity of the game remains protected.