Former Pakistani player labels IPL 'biggest platform for match-fixing'

A former Pakistan pacer has levelled serious match-fixing allegations against the BCCI and the Indian Premier League, calling the IPL the “biggest platform” for fixing after Rajasthan Royals’ narrow loss to Lucknow Super Giants.

Tanvir Ahmed, who represented Pakistan in 5 Test matches, reignited the long-standing debate on corruption in cricket on Wednesday, claiming the Indian Premier League (IPL) is dominated by match-fixers.

His comments followed Rajasthan Royals’ two-run defeat to Lucknow Super Giants in the 36th match of IPL 2025 — a result that has triggered speculation and public scrutiny.

“The BCCI proudly claims IPL is the biggest cricket league in the world. Yes, it is — but it’s also the biggest platform for fixing. Most teams are in the hands of fixers,” Ahmed posted on social media platform X, formerly Twitter.

BCCi bolta ha humari IPL duniya ke sab say bari league ha han woh tou ha lekin fixing bhi sab say bari hote ha ziyada tar tou team's fixer's kay pass hain — Tanveer Says (@ImTanveerA) April 22, 2025

The Royals, chasing 181, collapsed in the final over needing just nine runs — a scenario strikingly similar to their recent defeat against Delhi Capitals.

Jaideep Bihani, Convenor of the Ad Hoc Committee of the Rajasthan Cricket Association (RCA), publicly questioned how such finishes were possible in back-to-back matches, hinting at possible misconduct.

Rajasthan Royals responded strongly, calling the allegations "false, baseless, and completely unfounded."

The franchise also demanded disciplinary action against Bihani, writing to the Rajasthan government and State Sports Council over his “defamatory remarks.”

Neither the BCCI nor the RCA has issued a statement as of yet.

The latest controversy adds to growing concerns over transparency and integrity in one of cricket’s most high-profile leagues, with past incidents continuing to cast a long shadow over the tournament’s reputation.

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