ICC Begins Investigation Into Alleged Corruption Links Within Cricket Canada During T20 WC 2026

The International Cricket Council's Anti-Corruption Unit (ACU) is investigating links of corruption involving Cricket Canada during the ICC Men's T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka.

According to a report by ESPNcricinfo, the incident stemmed from two active investigations that spanned elements of Cricket Canada and allegations of breaches of the ICC's anti-corruption code at international and domestic levels.

The allegations surfaced through a documentary titled "Corruption, Crime and Cricket", produced by The Fifth Estate, a Canadian investigative programme. The 43-minute film, aired on CBC (Canadian Broadcasting Corporation), levels extensive accusations related to corruption and governance issues within Cricket Canada.

What Are The Major Areas Of Concern?

One of the key concerns highlighted in the film relates to Canada's World Cup match against New Zealand, where scrutiny is placed on the fifth over of the chase. Then-captain Dilpreet Bajwa, who was appointed just three weeks before the tournament, was brought into the attack at a critical stage after Canada had started with pace bowlers Jaskaran Singh and Dilon Heyliger. While early overs proved expensive, the shift to spin brought mixed results, including a wicket maiden from Saad bin Zafar. However, Bajwa's over reportedly included a no-ball, a wide, and 15 runs conceded.

The documentary also references a leaked telephone recording involving former Canada coach Khurram Chohan, in which he alleges that senior Cricket Canada officials pressured him to select certain players. The audio, already under investigation by the ICC's Anti-Corruption Unit (ACU), also contains claims of attempted match-fixing, though officials say evidence remains difficult to verify.

ICC ACU interim general manager Andrew Ephgrave confirmed the unit is aware of the documentary but declined to comment on specific allegations, stating that such matters are handled under established integrity procedures. He added that governance issues fall under ICC jurisdiction, while the ACU continues to operate through intelligence, prevention, and investigation channels.

Dassanayake Highlights Selection Problems Within The Team

The film also features former coach Pubudu Dassanayake, who makes similar claims of undue influence in squad selection during the buildup to the 2024 T20 World Cup. Dassanayake has reportedly initiated legal action against Cricket Canada for wrongful dismissal.

Beyond coaching controversies, the documentary highlights administrative instability within Cricket Canada, including leadership changes and prior scrutiny over former CEO Salman Khan, who has been charged with theft and fraud by Canadian police, charges he denies.

It further alleges delays in player payments following the 2024 T20 World Cup and claims of players being left on minimal retainers ahead of the next tournament. The programme also touches on alleged links to organised crime, including claims of threats made to a former player, an issue the ICC says falls outside its jurisdiction and into law enforcement territory.

Cricket Canada has not yet issued a detailed response to the documentary's allegations.