The International Cricket Council (ICC) has launched a formal investigation into alleged corruption surrounding a group-stage match involving the Canada Cricket Team during the 2026 T20 World Cup. The probe, being conducted by the ICC's Anti-Corruption Unit (ACU), centers on concerns about the integrity of the game, particularly focusing on a pivotal over bowled by Canadas then newly-appointed captain, Dilpreet Bajwa, against New Zealand.

Allegations Stem from Investigative Documentary

The investigation follows the broadcast of a hard-hitting 43-minute investigative documentary titled Corruption, Crime and Cricket, produced by CBCs Fifth Estate, a renowned Canadian documentary series. The film levels wide-ranging accusations against Cricket Canada, citing systemic corruption, poor governance, and potential match manipulation at the international level.

Focused on a Suspicious Over

The ACU is particularly scrutinizing the fifth over of New Zealands chase, a moment that may have tipped the balance of the match. At the time, New Zealand stood at 35 for 2 after a solid start. Canada initially relied on pace bowlers Jaskaran Singh and Dilon Heyliger, who conceded 15 and 14 runs respectively in their opening overs, putting early pressure on the Canadian side.

Responding to the aggression, Canada brought in spin early, with experienced left-arm spinner Saad bin Zafar delivering a wicket-maiden in the third over. Heyliger then struck again in the fourth over, keeping Canada competitive. However, in the fifth over, captain Dilpreet Bajwaa 22-year-old batting all-rounder with limited bowling credentials who had been named captain only three weeks before the tournamentintroduced himself into the attack.

The over quickly unraveled: Bajwa began with a no-ball, followed by a wide down the leg side, and eventually conceded 15 runs without taking a wicket. The unusually erratic performance has triggered red flags, leading to suspicions of possible underperformance or manipulation, as highlighted in the documentary and now being probed by the ICC.

ICC Maintains Protocol, Doesnt Confirm Details

Andrew Ephgrave, Interim General Manager of the ICCs Integrity Unit, issued a formal response to inquiries from ESPNcricinfo. While declining to comment on the specifics of the allegations due to ongoing procedures, Ephgrave affirmed the ACUs vigilance.

The ACU is aware of the programme broadcast by CBC. In line with its established operating procedures, the ACU is not in a position to comment on the substance of any allegations contained within it. Governance matters relating to ICC members are addressed by the ICC, where they fall under its jurisdiction, in accordance with its standard constitutional processes, he stated.

He added: The ICCs Anti-Corruption Unit operates across three core functionsintelligence, prevention and education, and investigation. These functions run concurrently and are applied wherever there is a credible basis to believe the integrity of the sport may be at risk.

The investigation remains ongoing, and Cricket Canada has yet to issue an official public statement in response to the allegations.