Match-fixing allegations Indian cricket manager jailed for 4 years

By Lakmal Sooriyagoda

An Indian cricket manager found guilty of match-fixing allegations related to the Legend Cricket League 2024 was yesterday sentenced to four years of imprisonment by the Matale High Court.

High Court Judge Ravindra Premaratne also imposed a fine of Rs. 85 million on the accused, Yoni Patel, and ordered him to pay Rs. 2 million in compensation to the complainant, Sri Lankan former cricketer Upul Tharanga. The Attorney General had filed an indictment in the Colombo High Court against Yoni Patel, a team manager of the Legend Cricket League 2024.

The High Court Judge also imposed a fine of Rs. 85 million on the accused and ordered him to pay Rs. 2 million in compensation to the complainant, Sri Lankan former cricketer Upul Tharanga

The case proceeded in the absence of the accused, and the court issued a warrant for his arrest.

The Legend Cricket League tournament, featuring seven teams of retired international cricketers, was held in March 2024 at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium.

The magisterial inquiry commenced on a complaint made by Sri Lankan former cricketer Upul Tharanga who represents Kandy Samp Army team and New Zealand legend Neil Broom representing Punjab Royals alleging that they were pressurised to engage in match fixing deals.

The Legend Cricket League 2024 was held at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Kandy from March 8 to March 19, 2024.

Counsel Nishan Sydney Premathiratne with Vikum Jayasinghe and Shenali Dias on the instructions of Gamindu Karunasena appeared for the interest of Upul Tharanga.