All is not well with former India U19 World Cup winner Manjot Kalra, who was arrested on July 16 on charges of corruption in the Lanka Premier League 2026. Now, as per a report in Cricinfo, the ex-cricketer has been remanded by the Magistrate’s Court in Colombo until July 31, the police officials have confirmed.
Manjot Kalra in deep trouble
Kalra happens to be co-owner of Jaffna Kings in the LPL, with Mayank Goel, and was presented before the court on July 17. As per various reports, the charges pertain to Kalra approaching the likes of Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Dunith Wellalage and Avishka Fernando, all Jaffna players, for influencing the results of the game for USD 30,000.
In fact, it seems the cricketers had recorded conversations of the same as well. But despite all this, the defence counsel has denied all these allegations, saying that there was no evidence of Manjot Kalra offering bribes. The latter too denied any wrongdoing. “Having had the privilege of representing India with honour, Mr. Kalra fully understands the responsibility and integrity expected of those associated with Indian sport. Throughout his career, he has remained committed to upholding those values,” a statement said.
“Mr. Kalra became a co-owner in the league as a minority shareholder, entering the venture in good faith and with complete integrity. Prior to his association, the league conducted all requisite background and due diligence checks, which confirmed his clean reputation.”
Denies any wrongdoing
It seems, after the initial approach, the players contacted the SIU, after which, acting on SIU instructions, the players negotiated for a payment of LKR 11.5 million with LKR 9.5 million as an advance. Then Kalra, along with a second person was arrested, upon arranging for the money. Meanwhile, the entire fiasco happened on Friday, just a few hours before the LPL season opener between Jaffna Kings and Galle Gallants. Manjot’s team lost the match by 36 runs.
