Manjot Kalra Remanded Until July 31 Over LPL Corruption Allegations

Former India Under‑19 cricketer Manjot Kalra, who also co‑owns the Jaffna Kings franchise, found himself back behind bars this week. A Colombo court remanded him in custody until July 31, just a day after his arrest on July 16, hours before the opening match of the 2026 Lanka Premier League (LPL).

According to statements presented by the police, Kalra is accused of approaching three Sri Lankan players – Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Dunith Wellalage and Avishka Fernando – with a cash offer that topped US $30,000. The alleged purpose? To influence the outcome of LPL games.

The investigators said they have not only phone‑call logs but also video recordings that tie Kalra to the conversations. While the evidence is still under review, Kalra’s legal team has vehemently denied any wrongdoing, calling the allegations “baseless” and urging the court to let their client out on bail.

Despite those pleas, the judge ordered that he stay detained while the Special Investigations Unit (SIU) continues its probe. Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has publicly pledged full cooperation with the SIU, emphasizing its commitment to a clean and transparent tournament.

This isn’t the first time the LPL has been mired in controversy, but the timing – just before the league’s kick‑off – has added a fresh layer of drama. Fans and stakeholders alike are watching closely, hoping the case will be resolved quickly so the focus can return to the cricket.

Kalra’s situation also raises broader questions about the vulnerability of emerging leagues to corruption, especially when big money is at stake. The next few weeks will be crucial, not just for his legal fate, but for the reputation of the LPL as a whole.