India’s Under-19 World Cup winner arrested for allegedly trying to bribe a player

NEW DELHI: Former India Under-19 World Cup winner Manjot Kalra was arrested by Sri Lankan sports anti-corruption investigators on Friday on charges of trying to bribe players during the Lanka Premier League (LPL), according to news agency PTI.Kalra, who scored the match-winner in the final of India’s 2018 U-19 World Cup-winning campaign, was taken into custody by the police’s Special Investigation Unit for Prevention of Sports-related Crime. He was later brought before a judge.The 27-year-old was part of India’s title-winning team at the 2018 U-19 World Cup, led by Prithvi Shaw. The team also featured future Indian internationals Shubman Gill, Arshdeep Singh and Shivam Mavi. Kalra was the hero of the final, remaining unbeaten on 101 as India defeated Australia to lift the trophy.According to the Sri Lankan police, Kalra is accused of offering money to a player in connection with the Lanka Premier League.The arrest came just a few hours before the start of the tournament. Kalra is one of the co-owners of the Jaffna Kings franchise.

Alleged attempted bribery

The 27-year-old, who moved into sports business after his playing career, became an investor in the Jaffna Kings franchise earlier this year. According to investigators, the player who was allegedly approached reported the incident to authorities about 10 days later, which ultimately led to Kalra’s arrest on Friday.Police said the complaint was filed by Sri Lankan cricketers Bhanuk Rajapaksa, Avishka Fernando and Dunith Wellalage. All three represent the Jaffna Kings in the LPL.Kalra’s arrest came on the opening day of the Lanka Premier League 2026 where Jaffna Kings were scheduled to take on Galle Gallants at the SSC Grounds in Colombo.The five-team competition consists of 24 matches and will conclude on August 8.

Sri Lanka Cricket’s Answer

In a statement, Sri Lanka Cricket said it has taken note of Kalra’s reported arrest and will fully cooperate with the Sports Crime Prevention Special Investigation Unit if any assistance is requested during the investigation.The board also said that the tournament will continue as scheduled without any interruption.Sri Lanka Cricket has reiterated its “zero tolerance” policy towards corruption and unethical practices and said it remains committed to protecting the integrity of the Lanka Premier League.