Srinagar: Ranji Trophy cricketer Fazil Rashid has raised allegations of match-fixing in local cricket, expressing concern over claims that players are allegedly being paid to manipulate matches and individual deliveries.
In an exclusive interaction with Kashmir Sports Watch (KSW), Rashid said the alleged practices were damaging the spirit of the game and called for an impartial investigation, regardless of who may be involved.
“As a professional cricketer, it is painful to see the spirit of our game being destroyed by alleged match-fixing,” Rashid said.
“Serious concerns have been raised about players allegedly taking money from individuals connected to betting networks outside Kashmir to manipulate matches, even individual deliveries,” he added.
Rashid said the allegations warranted serious attention, particularly amid concerns that influential individuals could also be involved.
“There are concerns that influential names may also be involved, and these allegations demand an impartial investigation, regardless of how powerful anyone is,” he said.
Emphasising the need for accountability, Rashid said the matter should be investigated without allowing the influence or standing of any individual to affect the process.
The allegations have not been independently verified by KSW. Rashid did not identify specific matches, players or individuals allegedly involved in the statement, and the claims should not be treated as established findings of match-fixing.
Rashid said the priority should be to protect the spirit of the game and ensure that concerns about possible manipulation are examined impartially.
