ICC launches probe into Canada over match-fixing claims in T20 World Cup 2026

The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 has come under scrutiny after fresh allegations of match-fixing surfaced in connection with Canada’s clash against New Zealand in Chennai.

According to a report by ESPNcricinfo, the International Cricket Council’s Anti-Corruption Unit (ACU) has launched an investigation into Cricket Canada following claims made in a recently aired documentary.

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The Canada-New Zealand fixture, played on February 17 at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, is a key focus of the probe. Canada posted 173/4 after opting to bat, but New Zealand chased down the target comfortably in 15.1 overs to seal an eight-wicket win and advance to the Super Eight stage. Glenn Phillips (59* off 39) and Rachin Ravindra (76* off 36) led the chase.

The report adds that the ACU is examining multiple allegations involving Cricket Canada, with two active investigations spanning both international and domestic cricket.

The claims were highlighted in a 43-minute documentary titled Corruption, Crime and Cricket, produced by Canadian investigative programme The Fifth Estate and aired by CBC. The film reportedly outlines allegations of corruption, governance issues and other irregularities within Canadian cricket.

One key incident under scrutiny is the fifth over of New Zealand’s innings, bowled by Canada captain Dilpreet Bajwa. Bajwa, who was appointed skipper just weeks before the tournament, conceded 15 runs in the over, including a no-ball and a wide, after New Zealand had slipped to 35/2.

Andrew Ephgrave, interim general manager of the ICC Integrity Unit, declined to comment on the specifics of the case.

“Consistent with its established operating procedures, the ACU is not in a position to comment on the substance of any allegations,” Ephgrave said, as quoted in the report. “The unit operates across intelligence, prevention, education and investigation, and acts wherever there is a credible risk to the integrity of the sport.”

Separately, the report also refers to a leaked phone recording of former Canada coach Khurram Chohan, in which he allegedly claimed that senior board members pressured him over team selection. The recording reportedly includes claims of attempted match-fixing, although these remain unverified.

Former head coach Pubudu Dassanayake has also raised similar concerns, alleging interference in team selection ahead of the 2024 T20 World Cup. He is currently pursuing legal action against Cricket Canada for wrongful dismissal.

The developments come amid ongoing administrative instability within Cricket Canada, which has seen multiple leadership changes over the past year, including the appointment and subsequent removal of former CEO Salman Khan, whose hiring had earlier drawn ICC scrutiny.