IPL player reports corrupt approach, BCCI ACU starts investigations

A player competing in IPL 2020 has "reported a corrupt approach", putting the BCCI's anti-corruption unit (ACU) on a high alert.

The current edition of the IPL is being held in the UAE in a biosecure environment, which has significantly reduced the chance for persons with dubious credentials approaching the player directly. The threat though still remains by and large due to the online network of corruptors

The BCCI ACU chief Ajit Singh, who is leading an eight-man team in the UAE, confirmed the development to PTI. "We are tracking him. It will take some time," Singh, the former DGP of Rajasthan, said when asked if the alleged corruptor has been nabbed.

As per anti-corruption protocols, the name of the player or franchise is not revealed for confidentiality purposes.

With players and support staff staying in a bio-bubble, unlike other years, the ACU is concentrating more on the possible online corrupt approaches. Most of the players are on social media platforms like Instagram and Twitter where unknown people masquerading as fans try to befriend them.

A senior BCCI official said all the players, whether overseas or Indian, have attended multiple anti-corruption classes.

"The best part is that the player who was approached immediately sensed that something is fishy. He had a suspicion and he immediately shared his concerns with the ACU. Every player, even those who have come from the Under-19 are well aware of each and every anti-corruption protocols," the BCCI official, privy to the development, told PTI on the condition of anonymity.

Due to health safety protocols this year, the ACU had organised its mandatory counselling sessions virtually for all the eight teams.

The BCCI has tied up with UK-based company Sportradar, which offers "integrity services" to prevent betting and other corrupt practices during the upcoming IPL through its Fraud Detection Services.