Former India Under-19 batter Manjot Kalra has denied all fixing allegations after being remanded in custody until July 31 by a Colombo Magistrate's Court following his arrest.
Kalra, a co-owner of the Jaffna Kings franchise, was taken into custody and produced before the court on July 17.
According to local media, the court heard that Kalra had allegedly approached Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Avishka Fernando, and Dunith Wellalage—all members of the Jaffna Kings squad.
Investigators disclosed in court that Kalra had offered the players over USD 30,000 to influence the outcome of games, and that they had recorded phone conversations and video evidence to support their claims.
According to court proceedings, the targeted players initially reported Kalra's approach to the Special Investigations Unit (SIU) for the Prevention of Offences Relating to Sports 10 days prior. Under SIU instructions, they engaged in a monitored negotiation that culminated in a total agreed payment of LKR 11.5 million with LKR 9.5 million set as an advance.
Sri Lanka police intercepted and arrested Kalra alongside an unnamed second individual at a pre-agreed location, where they carried a bag with the advance payment.
However, Kalra's defense counsel has formally rejected the claims made by the Sri Lanka police, maintaining that there is no evidence of him offering or paying a bribe and asserting his complete innocence. While his lawyers petitioned for bail, the Chief Magistrate denied the request, ruling that his release could prejudice the active, ongoing investigation.
In a statement released on his behalf, Kalra denied corruption and match-fixing accusations, stating he is cooperating with authorities and expressed confidence that his innocence will be established.
"Having had the privilege of representing India with honour, Mr. Kalra fully understands the responsibility and integrity expected of those associated with Indian sport. Throughout his career, he has remained committed to upholding those values," the statement said. "Mr. Kalra became a co-owner in the league as a minority shareholder, entering the venture in good faith and with complete integrity. Prior to his association, the league conducted all requisite background and due diligence checks, which confirmed his clean reputation.
"As the matter is currently under investigation, Mr. Kalra will continue to cooperate fully with the authorities and will refrain from making any further comments at this stage. He remains confident that the truth will prevail.
"Senior Counsel Mr K Wasantha S Fernando, Attorney at Law and his able team of Junior Attorneys at Law are currently taking care of his interest and have expressed the confidence in disproving and negating the allegations leveled against Mr Kalra and will ensure all possible steps are taken within the provisions of law to bring all perpetrators involved in fixing Mr Kalra into this undesired situation to light while assisting law enforcement officers and Honorable Court to arrive at Justice in the right manner."
(With Cricinfo Inputs)
