Former Sri Lankan spinner Sachithra Senanayake received a harsh verdict for match-fixing that has seriously impacted his cricket career. The Hambantota High Court found him guilty of trying to lure fellow players into fixing matches during the 2020 Lanka Premier League (LPL).
According to reports, Senanayake contacted two cricketers playing in the inaugural LPL via phone from Dubai. He tried to persuade them to take part in match-fixing. One of the players he approached was Tharindu Ratnayake, who represented the Colombo Kings at the time.
This isn’t the first time Senanayake has found himself in hot water over corruption. Back in 2023, he was arrested on similar charges but was later released on bail. At that time, he firmly denied all the allegations. However, following instructions from the Attorney General and the Special Investigation Unit of the Sports Ministry, officials decided to impose a three-month travel ban on him.
Senanayake played for Sri Lanka from 2012 to 2016 and was part of the team that clinched the T20 World Cup in 2014. He also had a stint in the IPL with the Kolkata Knight Riders. Despite his commendable career, the shadow of his match-fixing conviction now looms large over his accomplishments. His involvement in corruption during the 2020 Lanka Premier League has raised serious questions about his integrity and has tarnished his reputation within the cricket community.
Aside from this scandal, Senanayake has had his fair share of hurdles. The ICC suspended him from bowling in 2014 due to an illegal action. Now, this latest verdict adds yet another tough chapter to his already complicated career. The authorities arrested him on similar charges back in 2023 but later released him on bail.
Senanayake’s guilty verdict casts a shadow over his cricketing legacy. This scandal not only tarnishes his public image but also underscores the pressing need for greater vigilance in the world of sports. Cricket should always be a game rooted in integrity, fairness, and respect.
