LPL match-fixing verdict prove Sri Lanka’s tough anti-corruption framework and approach in sports
Sri Lanka’s robust anti-corruption framework has once again proven its effectiveness after a UK national was convicted and fined heavily over an illegal match-fixing approach during the 2024 Lanka Premier League (LPL), sending a strong message that the country remains uncompromising in its stance against corruption in sport.
The case, which revolved around an attempted illegal approach involving the Dambulla Thunders franchise, was investigated and prosecuted under the Prevention of Sport-Related Offences Act, No.24 of 2019 – legislation widely regarded as one of the toughest anti-corruption laws in sport in the region. Its successful application in this instance has been hailed as a landmark moment for Sri Lankan cricket and sport as a whole.
According to official findings, the Anti-Corruption Unit (ACU) of the International Cricket Council (ICC) first received information relating to a suspicious approach during the 2024 LPL. Acting swiftly, the ICC-ACU initiated a preliminary inquiry and advised that the matter be referred to Sri Lanka’s Special Investigation Unit (SIU) for the Prevention of Sport-Related Offences, operating under the Ministry of Sports.
The breakthrough came on May 1, 2024, when Sashrika Pussagolla, Team Manager of the Dambulla Thunders, formally reported the approach to the SIU in line with ICC anti-corruption protocols. His complaint triggered a full-scale criminal investigation, underscoring the importance of mandatory reporting mechanisms embedded in both ICC regulations and Sri Lanka’s domestic law.
The suspect, Tamim Rahman, a UK national, was apprehended by the SIU on May 22, 2024, while attempting to flee the country. The investigation was conducted under the direction of SIU Director ASP Jayanath Wanasingha, with a team comprising Chief Inspector Supul Vidanage, Investigation Officer Randil Sanjeewa, Police Constable Weerasingha and Herath. Following the completion of investigations, the findings were forwarded to the Attorney General’s Department for legal action.
Criminal proceedings were led by Senior Additional Solicitor General Sumathi Darmawardana, PC with the advice from Attorney General Parinda Ranasinghe, together with State Counsel Akila Dalpadadu and officers of the Prevention of Sport-Related Offences Unit. An indictment was filed before the High Court of Colombo where the accused pleaded guilty.
The Attorney General subsequently filed an indictment before the High Court of Colombo under case number HC 5556/25. The accused pleaded guilty, and on January 28, 2026, High Court Judge Udesh Rathnathunga imposed a fine of Rs. 24 million along with a four-year prison sentence, suspended for five years.
Legal observers say the conviction highlights the deterrent power of Sri Lanka’s anti-corruption legislation, which allows for criminal prosecution rather than relying solely on sporting sanctions. The close coordination between the ICC-ACU, the SIU and the Attorney General’s Department was also cited as a model of effective international and domestic cooperation.
Special recognition has been recommended for Pussagolla, whose prompt and principled actions were described as exemplary. His role has been highlighted as proof that strong laws are most effective when matched by individual integrity.