Former Sri Lankan Cricketer Sachithra Senanayake Faces Match-Fixing Charges

Match-Fixing Allegations Against Senanayake

The Hambantota High Court has formally charged Sachithra Senanayake for attempting to recruit a player for match-fixing during the 2020 Lanka Premier League (LPL). This case marks a significant moment as it is the first time a national-level cricketer in Sri Lanka has faced such allegations since the introduction of the new anti-corruption legislation. In 2023, authorities apprehended him and subsequently released him on bail. Senanayake, who was called up to the national team in 2012, has taken 78 wickets in one Test, 49 ODIs, and 24 T20 matches before retiring in 2016. He was part of the Sri Lankan squad that clinched the T20 World Cup in 2014.

Details from Local Reports

According to local media, Senanayake allegedly made corrupt overtures to fellow national player Tharindu Ratnayake, who was playing for the Colombo Kings at the time. Reports indicate that he also reached out to two other cricketers involved in the inaugural LPL in 2020, attempting to persuade them to participate in match-fixing through phone calls made from Dubai.

Profile of Sachithra Senanayake

Sachithra Senanayake is a well-known figure in Sri Lankan cricket, having played all formats for his country. As an all-rounder, he bats right-handed and bowls off-spin. He made his international debut during the fourth ODI against South Africa in the 2011-12 series at just 18 years old. Over his career, he has taken 297 first-class wickets in 59 matches, boasting an impressive average of 20.50, along with 107 List A wickets at an excellent economy rate of 3.90.