The International Cricket Council (ICC) announced Friday that it is investigating Cricket Canada following allegations of match corruption, including the team’s eight-wicket loss to New Zealand at the recent T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka.
The game in Chennai has come under scrutiny after a documentary aired by the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC) raised concerns about corruption and governance within Cricket Canada. The ICC’s Anti-Corruption Unit (ACU) confirmed it is reviewing the claims. “The ACU is aware of the programme broadcast by CBC,” said Andrew Ephgrave, interim general manager of the ICC’s Integrity Unit.
Suspicion centers on the fifth over bowled by Canadian captain Dilpreet Bajwa during New Zealand’s chase. He began with a no-ball, followed with a wide, and conceded 15 runs in the over. Canada had posted 173 for four in their 20 overs, but New Zealand chased down the target in just 15.1 overs, finishing at 176 for two.
The ICC is also investigating a phone call involving then Canada coach Khurram Chohan, who claimed senior board members pressured him to select certain players. Ephgrave noted that governance matters involving ICC members fall under the body’s constitutional processes.
Cricket Canada responded by saying it is treating the matter with “utmost importance.” In a statement, the board said it takes allegations of organized crime and match-fixing “extremely seriously” and pledged to review the claims responsibly and take appropriate steps.
The CBC documentary alleged systemic corruption and poor governance within Cricket Canada, raising questions about oversight and accountability in associate cricket nations. The ICC’s investigation will determine whether disciplinary action is warranted and whether reforms are needed to strengthen governance structures.
The case underscores the ongoing challenge of protecting cricket’s integrity, particularly in global tournaments where associate teams face scrutiny over performance and administration.
