Unveiling the Connection Between Match Fixing and Gulshan Kumar's Murder

The late 1990s saw a significant match-fixing scandal in cricket, with Hansie Cronje at its center. Recent revelations by sports editor Sandeep Dwivedi link this scandal to the murder of Gulshan Kumar. As investigations unfolded, recordings surfaced that led to Cronje's involvement being exposed. This article delves into the intricate connections between these events, highlighting how a chance encounter at an award ceremony played a pivotal role in uncovering the truth. Read on to explore this gripping narrative that intertwines sports and crime.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 12, 2026, 16:09 IST

A Dark Chapter in Cricket History

The late 1990s marked a troubling period for cricket, with several Indian players embroiled in a scandal. Former South African captain Hansie Cronje emerged as a key figure in this controversy, alongside bookmaker Sanjeev Chawla. Recent revelations suggest a surprising link between the match-fixing scandal and the murder of Gulshan Kumar, with Cronje's name surfacing during the investigation.

Insights from a Sports Editor

Sandeep Dwivedi, the National Sports Editor for a prominent news outlet, disclosed these findings during a weekly show titled "Khel Ki Baat, Sandeep Dwivedi Ke Saath." He explained that the investigation into Gulshan Kumar's murder and the threats faced by his brother led to the discovery of several recordings, which ultimately implicated Hansie Cronje in match-fixing.

How the Truth About the Main Accused Emerged

During the show, Dwivedi elaborated, "Sanjeev Chawla, a bookmaker, was brought from England to India. His case was ongoing, and the police were conversing with individuals involved in cracking that case. They were investigating an extortion case linked to threats received after Gulshan Kumar's murder. His brother had been receiving threatening calls, which the police were tracing."

The Discovery of Key Evidence

He continued, "While investigating, the police stumbled upon some tapes. Upon listening, they heard strange conversations, including phrases like 'so much was given... so many catches were dropped...' Initially, the police were puzzled about the context. Gradually, they realized the discussions were between a bookmaker and a foreign individual. Lower-ranking officers brought these tapes to their senior officer, Pradeep Srivastava."

The Revelation at the Award Ceremony

Dwivedi recounted, "One day, Pradeep Srivastava was casually watching an award ceremony after a match when Hansie Cronje took the stage to speak. As soon as Cronje began, Srivastava was taken aback, recognizing the voice from the tapes he had heard earlier. This coincidence marked the beginning of unraveling one of cricket's most significant match-fixing scandals."