Former India Under-19 cricketer and Jaffna Kings co-owner Manjot Kalra has been remanded in custody until July 31 by a Magistrate’s Court in Colombo after being arrested in connection with an alleged corruption case during the 2026 Lanka Premier League (LPL).
Kalra was taken into custody on July 16 and produced before the court the following day. Sri Lanka Police confirmed the remand as investigations into the alleged match-fixing attempt continue.
Alleged Bribery of Players
According to local media reports, investigators told the court that Kalra allegedly approached three Jaffna Kings players—Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Dunith Wellalage, and Avishka Fernando—with an offer exceeding USD 30,000 to influence the outcome of LPL matches.
The Special Investigations Unit (SIU) for the Prevention of Offences Relating to Sports reportedly possesses recorded phone conversations and video evidence supporting the allegations.
Sting Operation Led to Arrest
Reports indicate that the players immediately informed the SIU after the alleged approach.
Acting under the unit’s guidance, they reportedly negotiated a payment of LKR 11.5 million, including an advance of LKR 9.5 million.
Kalra and another individual were arrested after the second suspect allegedly arrived at a pre-arranged location carrying a bag containing the advance payment.
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Bail Denied
Kalra’s legal team denied all allegations, arguing there was no evidence that he had offered or paid any bribe.
His lawyers sought bail, but the Colombo Chief Magistrate rejected the request, stating that releasing him could interfere with the ongoing investigation.
Kalra Denies Allegations
In a statement issued on his behalf, Kalra maintained his innocence and said he is fully cooperating with the investigation.
He stated that he remains confident the facts will clear his name and stressed that he has always upheld the values of integrity throughout his cricketing career.
The statement also noted that he became a minority shareholder in the Jaffna Kings after all required background and due diligence checks confirmed his clean record.
His legal team said they are confident of disproving the allegations and will continue to assist investigators and the court throughout the proceedings.
Arrest Came Before LPL Opener
News of Kalra’s arrest emerged just hours before the opening match of the 2026 Lanka Premier League between Jaffna Kings and Galle Gallants.
The Kings went on to lose the season opener by 36 runs.
The investigation remains ongoing, and no formal verdict has been delivered. Authorities are expected to continue gathering evidence before the next court hearing on July 31.