Sri Lanka recently celebrated a historic victory against India in a One Day International (ODI) series. However, amidst this significant win, Sri Lankan cricket has been hit with a major controversy. A Sri Lankan player has been accused of match-fixing, and the International Cricket Council (ICC) has demanded an explanation.
India vs Sri Lanka Series Recap
The Indian cricket team’s tour of Sri Lanka has just concluded. During this tour, the two teams played three T20 matches and an ODI series. While India won the T20 series, Sri Lanka defeated India in the ODI series, marking their first win against India in 27 years. However, troubling news has emerged for Sri Lankan cricket as one of their players is now facing match-fixing allegations, and the ICC has sought answers. This has put the player’s future at risk, with the possibility of a ban looming.
Match-Fixing Allegations Against Sri Lankan Player
The ICC has accused Sri Lankan cricketer Praveen Jayawickrama of violating three clauses of the ICC Anti-Corruption Code. Jayawickrama has been given 14 days, starting from August 6, 2024, to respond to the charges. He is accused of being approached to fix international matches.
ICC’s Action
Praveen Jayawickrama was allegedly asked to contact another player for fixing matches during the 2021 Lanka Premier League. However, he failed to report this approach to the ICC’s Anti-Corruption Unit (ACU). Moreover, he is accused of obstructing the ACU’s investigation, which led to the ICC taking action against him. Additionally, Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) and the ICC have agreed that the ICC will take action regarding international match fees and fees related to the Lanka Premier League.
Praveen Jayawickrama’s International Career
Praveen Jayawickrama has played in all three formats for the Sri Lankan national team. He has participated in 5 Test matches, 5 ODIs, and 5 T20 Internationals. In Test cricket, he has taken 25 wickets, while in ODIs, he has claimed 5 wickets, and in T20s, he has taken 2 wickets. Jayawickrama last played for Sri Lanka in May 2022 and has been out of the team since then. He has played four matches against India, taking 10 wickets in those games.
