BCCI Issues Showcause Notice to Reetinder Singh Sodhi Over Conflict of Interest Allegations

The BCCI has taken significant action by issuing a showcause notice to Reetinder Singh Sodhi, the chairman of the Punjab Cricket Association's Cricket Advisory Committee. This notice stems from allegations of conflict of interest due to Sodhi's multiple roles in cricket. The Ombudsman has requested a detailed response from Sodhi regarding these claims. The situation arose after a complaint was filed by Rakesh Handa, who highlighted the potential conflicts arising from Sodhi's various positions. The Punjab Cricket Association has responded, clarifying the nature of Sodhi's engagement and denying any financial misconduct. Discover the full details of this unfolding story.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 17, 2026, 23:55 IST

BCCI's Action Against Reetinder Singh Sodhi

The Ombudsman and Ethics Officer of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has formally notified Reetinder Singh Sodhi, the chairman of the Cricket Advisory Committee of the Punjab Cricket Association, regarding potential breaches of conflict of interest regulations. This notice pertains to issues surrounding his remuneration and concerns about transparency and disclosure.

Justice (retd) Arun Mishra, serving as the Ombudsman and Ethics Officer for the BCCI, issued this notice on June 8, 2026, requesting a comprehensive written response along with relevant documentation within four weeks of receiving the notice.

On May 23, 2026, Rakesh Handa lodged a complaint asserting that Sodhi, a former Indian cricketer, is holding multiple roles simultaneously, including match official, PCA Cricket Advisory Committee chairman, cricket academy owner, and commentator.

Handa argued that these overlapping responsibilities create a significant conflict of interest as per the BCCI and PCA regulations.

As a life member of the PCA, Handa also claimed that Sodhi failed to disclose this conflict and requested appropriate actions to be taken.

In a response submitted to the BCCI Ombudsman on July 13, the Punjab Cricket Association stated that Sodhi's role with the CAC was limited to a specific timeframe, intended solely for the 2025-26 cricket season to select coaches and support staff. They confirmed that this engagement concluded in June 2026, and Sodhi currently holds no position within the PCA.

The PCA further clarified that the CAC was established by the PCA president on July 28, 2025, and communicated to all Apex Council members via email on July 31, 2025. They categorically denied any claims of undisclosed financial liabilities amounting to Rs 25 lakh plus GST annually, asserting that Sodhi's professional fee was disbursed in four quarterly installments, as explicitly stated in his appointment letter dated July 28, 2025. The Apex Council had authorized the CAC to finalize this remuneration, pending the president's approval.

Reetinder Singh Sodhi, a versatile player from Patiala, made his international debut against Zimbabwe in 2000, participating in 18 ODIs, with his last match occurring against the West Indies in 2002.