The alleged links between the Lawrence Bishnoi gang and the match-fixing scandal have emerged as the central controversy surrounding Cricket Canada. According to a report by CBC News, threats and intimidation may have influenced team decisions during the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026.

Canadian captain Dilpreet Bajwa is at the center of the matter. His appointment has come into question, with claims that players were pressured into supporting him. Some were reportedly warned of dire consequences if they did not support certain players.

“So he just said these words to them, ‘You’ve got to take care of these guys. These guys shouldn’t be taken off the team. If they do, you’re in trouble.’ Obviously this was very scary for her,” a source identified as Noah said.

This situation has now drawn the attention of the International Cricket CouncilWhich has started investigating possible violations of its anti-corruption rules. One of the matches being focused on is Canada’s World Cup match against New Zealand in Chennai.

“We cannot comment on the substance of the allegations at this stage,” said Andrew Effgrave, the ICC’s interim integrity chief.

What is the Canada match fixing scandal?

The controversy began when a documentary highlighted issues within Cricket Canada such as poor governance, questionable team selection and possible match fixing.

One match under focus is Canada’s loss to New Zealand, where they failed to defend 173 runs. One particular over bowled by Bajwa has caught the attention, scoring 15 runs including a no-ball and a wide.

The leaked phone recording also contains claims related to former coach Khurram Chauhan, who reportedly said that board members had put pressure on him regarding team selection. The recording also mentions possible fixing attempts, but these claims have yet to be proven.

Former coach Pubudu Dassanayake has also made similar allegations and is currently taking legal action against the board.

How is Bishnoi gang involved in Canada cricket scandal?

The most serious claims involve the alleged role of the Bishnoi gang in influencing players through threats. According to the report, some players were contacted and asked to support certain people in the team.

“We know you won’t be able to run away from the Bishnoi group where you live,” Noah said, describing one of the threatening messages.

According to the allegations, the aim was to ensure that Bajwa became the captain and that certain players were not dropped. The situation created fear within the team and even affected the officials, with some seeking police protection and others quitting.

The investigation is still ongoing, but the case has already raised major questions about player safety and the integrity of cricket in Canada.

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