Dambulla Thunders Terminated from Lanka Premier League Following Owner’s Arrest on Fixing Charges

May 22, 2024 0 864

The Lanka Premier League has terminated the Dambulla Thunders franchise after their owner, Tamim Rahman, was arrested for alleged match-fixing.

The Lanka Premier League (LPL) took decisive action by discontinuing the Dambulla Thunders franchise following the arrest of their owner, Tamim Rahman, a British national of Bangladeshi descent, on allegations of involvement in match-fixing. The arrest, confirmed by the Sports Ministry’s Special Investigation Unit, led to Rahman’s remand until May 31 by the Colombo Magistrate’s Court. Rahman faced an investigation under Sri Lanka’s sports act concerning match-fixing and gambling.

In an official statement, Sri Lanka Cricket emphasized the significance of maintaining the LPL’s integrity, prompting the immediate termination of the franchise to protect the league’s image and values. Assuring minimal disruption to the upcoming season, LPL management pledged to uphold standards of fair play and sportsmanship.

“While the specifics of the charges against Mr. Rahman remain unclear, the integrity and smooth functioning of the Lanka Premier League are of utmost importance. This termination aims to uphold the values and reputation of the LPL, ensuring that all participants adhere to the highest standards of conduct and sportsmanship,” the statement read.

‘The LPL management is working diligently to address the consequences of this termination and to ensure minimal disruption to the upcoming season. The LPL remains committed to delivering an exciting and competitive tournament and will take all necessary steps to maintain the league’s integrity and success,” it added.

IPG group chairman Anil Mohan emphasized a commitment to transparency and professionalism during the transition period, ensuring support for teams, players, and fans for the upcoming LPL scheduled from July 1 to 21. The recent fifth edition’s auction saw the participation of 500 players, both local and international, with Matheesha Pathirana making history as the most expensive player at USD 120,000, rejoining Colombo Strikers for the 2024 tournament.

The LPL features competition among five franchises. In 2023, B-Love Kandy clinched the LPL title by defeating Dambulla Aura in the finals.