The menace of match-fixing has resurfaced, with a report claiming that Cricket Canada is under investigation for alleged breaches of the ICC’s anti-corruption code. One of the alleged breaches reportedly occurred during the recent T20 World Cup 2026, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka.
The allegations were detailed in a documentary titled Corruption, Crime and Cricket, produced by the fifth estate, a Canadian investigative programme.
According to the documentary, an over bowled by Canadian captain Dilpreet Bajwa during Canada’s T20 World Cup match against New Zealand is under scrutiny.
Canada began defending their total of 173 against New Zealand in Chennai with two pacers, Jaskaran Singh and Dilon Heyliger, who conceded 35 runs between them. Spin was then introduced, with Saad Bin Zafar delivering a wicket-maiden.
Heyliger was given another over, in which he picked up a wicket while conceding just five runs, before Bajwa brought himself into the attack for the 5th over.
Bajwa conceded 15 runs in it, which included a no-ball and a delivery down the leg side that resulted in two wides.
Apart from the contentious over, the ICC is also investigating a recorded telephone call involving former Canada coach Khurram Chohan, who alleges he was pressured by senior Cricket Canada board members to select certain players for the national team. He also claims there were attempts to fix matches.
Another former coach, Pubudu Dassanayake, has alleged that he was threatened with contract termination after refusing to select certain players in the squad for the 2024 T20 World Cup.
The ICC’s Anti-Corruption Unit has acknowledged the documentary but declined to comment on the specific allegations, citing operational procedures.
“The ACU is aware of the programme broadcast by CBC. Consistent with its established operating procedures, the ACU is not in a position to comment on the substance of any allegations contained within it,” Ephgrave was quoted as saying by ESPNcricinfo.
“Governance matters in relation to ICC Members are considered by the ICC, where they fall under its jurisdiction, in accordance with the ICC’s standard constitutional processes.
“The ICC’s Anti-Corruption Unit operates across three core functions: intelligence, prevention and education, and investigation. These functions operate concurrently and are applied wherever there is a credible basis to believe the integrity of the sport may be at risk,” he added.
