Colombo, Sri Lanka – In a significant development for cricket’s ongoing battle against corruption, former Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) spinner Sachithra Senanayake has been formally indicted by the Hambantota High Court on charges of attempting to lure a fellow player into match-fixing during the 2020 Lanka Premier League (LPL). This marks a landmark case, as Senanayake becomes the first national-level cricketer to be prosecuted under Sri Lanka’s recently introduced anti-corruption law.
The Indictment and Allegations
Sachithra Senanayake, who played for KKR in the 2013 Indian Premier League season, faces serious allegations of corrupt practices. The Attorney General’s Department confirmed the indictment, stating that he attempted to persuade a fellow cricketer, Tharindu Ratnayake (then playing for Colombo Kings in the LPL), to engage in match-fixing.
Reports also indicate that Senanayake allegedly contacted two other cricketers participating in the inaugural LPL in 2020 via telephone from Dubai, attempting to coerce them into match-fixing.
Background and Previous Actions
Senanayake was initially arrested in 2023 in connection with these allegations but was subsequently released on bail. A local court had also imposed a travel ban on him in the same year. The 40-year-old off-spinner represented Sri Lanka in one Test, 49 ODIs, and 24 T20 Internationals between 2012 and 2016, and was a member of Sri Lanka’s 2014 T20 World Cup-winning squad. For KKR, he played eight matches in IPL 2013, taking nine wickets.
Legal Ramifications and Broader Context
If convicted under Sri Lanka’s anti-corruption law, Senanayake could face a sentence of up to 10 years in prison, a fine of up to 100 million Sri Lankan rupees (approximately $333,000 USD), or both.
This case underscores the persistent efforts by cricketing authorities worldwide to combat corruption and maintain the integrity of the sport. It also highlights the stricter legal frameworks being implemented by various nations to deter and punish those involved in match-fixing. Senanayake has consistently denied all allegations against him, asserting his innocence.
