C.M. Gautam and Abrar Kazi, former Karnataka Ranji players, have been arrested on spot-fixing charges in the final of the Karnataka Premier League (KPL). The number of people detained in the scandal has now gone up to six.
Gautam and Kazi were arrested by the Bengaluru Central Crime Branch which is investigating spot-fixing charges in the last two season of the KPL.
According to reports, Bellary Tuskers captain Gautam and teammate Kazi allegedly accepted Rs 20 lakh for “slow batting” in the KPL final against Hubli Tigers. The Tuskers lost the final by eight runs.
“They were paid Rs 20 lakh for slow batting, and for other things. Also, they fixed another match against Bengaluru team,” an investigation officer said after the arrest.
Bengaluru team player Nishant Singh Shekhawat is alleged to have acted as an intermediary between bookies and players. He was detained earlier this week, along with three others, including Ali Ashfaq Thara, the owner of the Belagavi Panthers team, since the scandal came to light.
Last month, Bengaluru Blasters bowling coach Vinu Prasad and batsman Vishwanathan were also arrested in connection with the case. The Central Crime Branch investigating officer said that more arrests are expected.
Apart from playing in the Ranji Trophy, Gautam has played for Royal Challengers Bangalore, Mumbai Indians and Delhi Daredevils in the Indian Premier League. He moved to Goa this season after nine years with his home team. Kazi, who also played the Ranji for Karnataka, now plays for Mizoram.
Both Gautham and Kazi had been named in their respective state squads for the upcoming Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy tournament, scheduled to begin on Friday.
(With inputs from PTI)
