Former India U-19 World Cup Hero Manjot Kalra Arrested in Sri Lanka Over Alleged LPL Bribery Attempt

Kalra, who scored a match-winning unbeaten century in the final of India's victorious 2018 ICC Under-19 World Cup campaign, was taken into custody by the Police Special Investigation Unit for the Prevention of Offences Relating to Sports. He was subsequently produced before a magistrate as authorities initiated legal proceedings in connection with the alleged corruption case.

The 27-year-old was a member of India's title-winning squad at the 2018 ICC Under-19 World Cup, captained by Prithvi Shaw. The team also featured future India internationals Shubman Gill, Arshdeep Singh and Shivam Mavi. Kalra emerged as the star of the final after remaining unbeaten on 101, guiding India to victory over Australia and securing the Under-19 World Cup title.

According to Sri Lankan police, Kalra is accused of offering money to a player in connection with the Lanka Premier League. The arrest took place just hours before the start of the tournament. Kalra is one of the co-owners of the Jaffna Kings franchise and had moved into sports entrepreneurship after the conclusion of his playing career, becoming an investor in the franchise earlier this year.

Investigators stated that the player who was allegedly approached reported the matter to the authorities approximately 10 days after the alleged incident, leading to Kalra's arrest on Friday following an investigation.

Police said the complaint was filed by Sri Lankan cricketers Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Avishka Fernando and Dunith Wellalage, all of whom represent the Jaffna Kings in the Lanka Premier League.

Kalra's arrest coincided with the opening day of the 2026 Lanka Premier League, where the Jaffna Kings were scheduled to face the Galle Gallants at the SSC Grounds in Colombo. The five-team tournament consists of 24 matches and is scheduled to conclude on August 8.

Responding to the development, Sri Lanka Cricket said it had taken note of Kalra's reported arrest and would fully cooperate with the Special Investigations Unit for the Prevention of Offences Relating to Sports if any assistance was required during the investigation. The board also confirmed that the tournament would proceed as scheduled without any disruption.

Reaffirming its zero-tolerance policy towards corruption and unethical practices, Sri Lanka Cricket stated that it remains committed to safeguarding the integrity of the Lanka Premier League. The arrest of a former Under-19 World Cup-winning cricketer and current franchise co-owner has placed the league under intense scrutiny as investigators continue their inquiry into the alleged bribery attempt.