All forms of domestic and international cricket have been on hiatus since March due to the global COVID-19 outbreak.

However, there was an event named UVA T20 Premier League being played on the outskirts of Mohali amid the pandemic.

According to a report published in The Indian Express, the tournament turned out to be a fake one as it was promoted as a Sri Lankan domestic league. In fact, Mohali police conducted raids and booked eight bookies in connection with the fake T20 league.

Police raided the hideouts of two accused who were arrested on Thursday (July 2) in relation to the fake tournament, which used local players and was reportedly conducted by the eight bookies.

The newspaper quoted Inspector Sukhbir Singh saying that the six other accused have gone into hiding. The police are also investigating to identify the players involved.

The tournament comprised of four teams - Wellawaya Vipers, Monaragala Hornets, Badulla Sea Eagles and Mahiyanganaya Unilions - was said to have former Sri Lankan cricketers like TM Dilshan, Farveez Maharoof, Ajantha Mendis, Thilan Tushara.

However, Maharoof rubbished a report on Twitter that he is part of any such competition.

Sri Lanka Cricket also hasn’t given any approval for the staging of UVA T20 Premier League. Apparently, SLC CEO Ashley De Silva has directed the Anti-corruption officer to look into the matter.

The UVA Province Cricket Association too denied any involvement.

"I can categorically assure you that no such tournament was approved or held by our association. We are investigating this matter and are in discussion with Sri Lanka Cricket and other relevant authorities," UPCA assistant secretary Bhagiradhan told The Indian Express.

As things turned out, the games were held in Mohali with online streaming on websites largely through long shots.