Former Sri Lankan Cricketer Indicted in Landmark Match-Fixing Case

Indictment in Colombo

Sachithra Senanayake, a former off-spinner for Sri Lanka and ex-player for Kolkata Knight Riders, has been officially charged in a significant match-fixing case in Colombo, as reported by a local news outlet.

This development follows his arrest in September 2023, after which he was released on bail.

The Colombo High Court has issued indictments against Senanayake under the Prevention of Offences Related to Sports Act, marking a historic first under this new legislation in Sri Lanka.

He faces allegations of attempting to corrupt two players during the 2020 Lanka Premier League (LPL), a claim he has repeatedly denied.

At 39 years old, Senanayake is accused of making unethical approaches to other players with the aim of manipulating game outcomes. These allegations emerged after a report from the Sports Ministry’s Special Investigation Unit last year led to his arrest.

The Attorney General’s Department has informed the High Court that there is adequate evidence to pursue charges against Senanayake under anti-corruption laws. If found guilty, he could face severe penalties, including imprisonment.

Significance of the Case

The case has attracted considerable national attention, particularly as it represents the first formal indictment under Sri Lanka’s new match-fixing laws established in 2019. Officials are optimistic that this will set a precedent to discourage future corruption in sports.

Senanayake, who has played 49 ODIs and 24 T20Is for Sri Lanka and was part of the Kolkata Knight Riders' IPL 2013 squad, has not publicly commented on the court's recent ruling.

Authorities have indicated that a date for the next hearing will be scheduled soon, during which the court will review the evidence and outline the timeline for trial proceedings.

Currently, the Sri Lanka Cricket Board has chosen not to comment on the ongoing case, which continues to be investigated alongside the court proceedings.