Shivalik Sharma, a former Indian Premier League (IPL) cricketer associated with the Mumbai Indians (MI), has been arrested on allegations of rape. The 26-year-old was detained in Rajasthan following a complaint lodged by a woman at the Kudi Bhagatsani police station in Jodhpur.
He has been remanded in judicial custody after appearing in court.
Rising Cricketer
Sharma, primarily known as a left-handed all-rounder, began his domestic career with Baroda in 2018. During his stint, he has played 18 first-class matches, scoring a total of 1,087 runs. In addition to his record in longer formats, he has participated in T20 matches, amassing 349 runs with an impressive strike rate of 147.88.
Despite being contracted for Rs 20 lakh by the Mumbai Indians for the 2024 IPL season, Sharma did not make an appearance for the franchise and was subsequently released.
Allegations by Former Partner
The situation arose after a woman, reportedly Sharma’s former partner, accused him of coercing her into a physical relationship under the pretext of marriage. The two are said to have met in February 2023 during a visit to Vadodara, where their relationship began over phone conversations.
By August 2023, the pair were engaged following a family meeting in Jodhpur, after which they reportedly travelled around Rajasthan as a couple, where Sharma is alleged to have physical relationship with her.
Strained Relations
Tensions escalated in August 2024 when the complainant visited Sharma's family in Vadodara and discovered they were seeking other potential marriage matches. Following the abrupt end of their engagement, the woman sought legal action in Rajasthan.
Authorities have confirmed all necessary procedures, including a medical examination and a court statement from the complainant, have been undertaken. Legal proceedings continue to unfold as both parties navigate the implications of these grave allegations.