BCCI Issues High Alert Over Suspicious Activity Involving Hyderabad Businessman

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has raised a red flag and placed all Indian Premier League (IPL) stakeholders — including team owners, players, coaches, support staff, and commentators — on high alert over a potentially dangerous individual attempting to infiltrate the league.

ACSU FLAGS SUSPECT WITH ALLEGED TIES TO BOOKIES

According to a report by Cricbuzz, the BCCI’s Anti-Corruption and Security Unit (ACSU) has identified a Hyderabad-based businessman with a history of connections to illegal betting syndicates and prior involvement in corrupt practices. The individual is reportedly trying to lure IPL participants into unethical or illegal dealings.

The ACSU believes that this person is attempting to get close to players and other members of IPL teams by pretending to be a passionate fan. His tactics reportedly include giving out lavish gifts and frequenting team hotels and match venues in a bid to befriend players, staff, and even family members.

Modus Operandi: Lavish Gifts, Social Media Tactics, and Party Invitations

The ACSU has outlined several concerning strategies used by the individual:

- Gifting Expensive Items: The suspect is said to be offering expensive gifts to players, their families, and support staff in an attempt to build personal connections.

- Masquerading as a Fan: He has allegedly been spotted at match venues and team hotels, presenting himself as a harmless admirer of the game.

- Hosting Private Events: Players and staff have reportedly been invited to exclusive parties, raising suspicions about the true intent behind these gatherings.

- Targeting Families: In some cases, the businessman has approached family members with offers such as gifting them jewellery stores or hotel businesses. There are even reports of him reaching out to relatives residing abroad via social media.

The ACSU has urged all teams to remain vigilant, report any suspicious interactions, and avoid accepting any unsolicited gifts or invitations.

IPL 2025 MID-SEASON UPDATE

The 18th edition of the IPL, which kicked off last month in Kolkata, has now completed 31 matches. The points table is heating up, with five teams — Gujarat Titans, Delhi Capitals, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Punjab Kings, and Lucknow Super Giants currently locked at eight points each, having won four matches apiece.

In contrast, defending champions Chennai Super Kings are struggling, sitting at the bottom of the table with only two wins from their first seven games. Meanwhile, Mumbai Indians, Rajasthan Royals, and Sunrisers Hyderabad have four points each but still have a game in hand, offering them a chance to climb the table.