KPL match-fixing row: Team owner grilled by CCB

Bengaluru: After the Central Crime Branch cracked down on match-fixing and betting in the popular Karnataka Premier League (KPL), the Special Enquiry (SE) squad on Friday, September 20 questioned Belagavi Panthers franchise owner Ali Asfak Thara based on information that he was involved in illegal activities.

Speakig on the issue Bengaluru Joint Commissioner of Police (Crime) Sandeep Patil said, “We had received information that there was match-fixing and betting in KPL by one team owner, based on which Ali was questioned.

He further added, “Ali was in touch with players of other teams. He is also involved in betting. The inquiry is still in the initial stage and a detailed investigation is required. We will seek the assistance of Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) and the anti-corruption unit of the BCCI too.”

As per the sources, the police are also probing Ali’s alleged links with bookies and punters in Mumbai and other cities.

Belagavi Panthers have featured in all editions of the KPL. They won the T20 title in 2017 and finished runners-up twice. They lost in the second qualifier this season to Hubli Tigers.