SLC rocked by match- fixing allegation
View(s):13 overs bowled in just 20 minutes
By S.R. Pathiravithana
In one of the most controversial incidents in the sports history of recent times, it seems that two leading cricketing clubs – Kalutara PCC and Panadura have been charged with match fixing allegations and would face dire consequences if the charges are proved.
Panadura SC’s left-arm spinner Gayan Sirisoma in action during one of the Premier League ‘B’ division matches - File Photo
Premier ‘B’ tournament is recognised by the ICC as a first class tournament. The incident sparked off upon a protest made by Premier League ‘B’ division table leaders Sri Lanka Ports Authority Cricket Club (SLPA) to Sri Lanka Cricket.
SLPA alleged that in a hilarious change of fixing dates, the game between Kalutara Physical Culture Circle and Panadura SC was brought forward and played on 23,24 and 25 at the Surrey Village Grounds at Maggona.
However it is alleged that what transpired in that game is tantamount to blatant match fixing.
It is said on the first day of the game Panadura won the toss and invited Kalutara PCC to take first lease of the wicket. On the first day Kalutara PCC in 94 overs of batting scored 362 for 8 at 3.85 runs per over.
On the next day PCC batted for another nine overs scored another 27 runs before being all out. That is they batted for 103 overs and scored 390 runs at the rate of 3.73.
Then by the tea break Panadura SC had to close their inning for the day due to rain. By then Panadura SC had scored 180 for 2 in 45 overs at 4 runs per over.
On the third day Panadura SC progresses to 399 for 5 by 11.45 a.m. when a shower interrupts the game and the ground gets water logged. In spite of the state of the wicket the match resumes with 43 overs remaining in the post tea session and Panadura makes 423 for 9 declared.
PCC batting for the second time scores 197 all out in 22.5 overs of batting at a rate of 8.62 runs per over. This leaves Panadura SC a target of 164 runs to win in 15 overs. Panadura SC scores the required runs in just 13.4 overs while scoring 167 for 7.
SLPA alleges on the third day in spite of a rain delay:
- Panadura SC scores 243 for 7 in 23.3 overs.
- Kalutara SC scores 197 all out in 22.5 overs.
- Then Panadura SC scores 167 for 7 in 13.4 overs.
- In the last 20 minutes 13 overs were bowled.
This means in one day off 59 overs 24 wickets fell for a total of 603 runs at the rate of 10.28 runs per over.
Further SLPA alleges that they have photo evidence of the unfair manner that the field was being set during the third day’s play.
Kalutara PCC has two very influential Ex-co members in their midst while the Panadura SC is backed by a SLC pillar.
When inquired by the vice president of Sri Lanka Cricket who in responsible for domestic cricket K. Mathivanan said that they obtained the umpires report and the more important match referees report on Saturday and they will sit at an extra-ordinary tournament committee this morning to probe into the matter. He further said “We have to arrive at a decision on the matter before the next lot of matches are due next Friday. However I also must add that if anyone is blameworthy of any wrong doing we will not hesitate to take very harsh action against any guilty parties.”