Former IPL Player Takes Charge as Mumbai Under-14 Head Coach

Spot-Fixing Scandal Impact

The spot-fixing scandal that rocked the Indian Premier League (IPL) in 2013 left a significant mark on the cricketing community. This controversy led to the end of the careers of former Indian fast bowler S. Sreesanth and two players from the Rajasthan Royals (RR). Although a former RR spinner was imprisoned due to this incident, all players were acquitted by the court due to lack of evidence. Nevertheless, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) imposed strict sanctions on these players.

Ankit Chavan Appointed Head Coach

Ankit Chavan, a former spinner for the Rajasthan Royals who was implicated in the 2013 spot-fixing case, has been appointed as the head coach of the Mumbai Under-14 team by the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA). Initially banned for life by the BCCI in 2013, his suspension was reduced to seven years in 2021. Following this, he made a comeback to club cricket in 2023, playing for the Karnataka Sports Club in Mumbai and passing the Level-1 coaching exam. The MCA has now entrusted him with the responsibility of coaching the Under-14 team, a role he expressed gratitude for.

Gratitude Expressed to MCA

After his appointment, Chavan remarked that this marks a new chapter in his career, one he has eagerly anticipated. He thanked the MCA for the opportunity and emphasized his commitment to providing excellent coaching to the Under-14 players.

Background of the Case

In the 2013 IPL scandal, S. Sreesanth, Ajit Chandila, and Ankit Chavan faced allegations of spot-fixing. The BCCI's disciplinary committee imposed lifetime bans on all three players. However, in 2015, a Delhi trial court acquitted them due to insufficient evidence, although the BCCI maintained the bans. In June 2021, the BCCI reduced the bans to seven years. Chavan has played 18 first-class matches for Mumbai, taking 53 wickets and scoring 571 runs, and participated in 13 IPL matches for the Rajasthan Royals, claiming 8 wickets.

Coaching and Selection Announcements

The Mumbai Cricket Association has also announced coaching and selection appointments for the domestic season. Omkar Salvi will continue as the head coach of the Mumbai Ranji team, which has performed well under his guidance. Former Indian cricketer Sandeep Patil remains the chairman of the selection committee.