BCCI bans Mumbai T20 League team owner for life over match-fixing attempt

Wankhede-Stadium. (Photo Source: Twitter)

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Ombudsman, Justice Arun Mishra, has imposed a lifetime ban on Gurmeet Singh Bhamrah, the owner of a Mumbai T20 League team, for violating the BCCI’s Anti-Corruption Code. The decision follows allegations that Bhamrah attempted to fix a match during the second season of the league.

Justice Mishra, a former judge of the Supreme Court of India, emphasised the need to handle corrupt practices in cricket with utmost strictness. In his order, he imposed the highest punishment permitted under the rules, pointing out the severity of the offence.

The incident in question took place during the semi-final match of the 2019 Mumbai T20 League. Bhamrah reportedly approached a player with the intent to fix the match. However, the player reported the matter to the relevant authorities, which led to an investigation.

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After an inquiry by the BCCI's Anti-Corruption Bureau, Bhamrah was found guilty. The case was then referred to the Ombudsman, who upheld the charges and issued a detailed explanation supporting the lifetime ban. It was also revealed that Bhamrah had commercial interests in other cricket leagues abroad, including in Canada.

Meanwhile, the upcoming season of the Mumbai T20 League is set to commence after the conclusion of IPL 2025 on May 25. This edition will feature eight teams, including the existing franchises, North Mumbai Panthers, ARCS Andheri, Triumph Knights Mumbai North East, Namo Bandra Blasters, Eagle Thane Strikers, and Aakash Tigers Mumbai Western Suburbs.

The Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) has invited iconic players to enhance the profile of the league and boost Mumbai cricket, and participate in the tournament, aiming to add greater value and visibility to the competition.

The Mumbai T20 League had been suspended after two editions that happened in 2018 and 2019 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The third edition is going to happen after almost a six-year gap and it will be exciting to watch which players will make their mark in the league.