Manjot Kalra granted conditional bail in Sri Lanka fixing case

New Delhi: Former India Under-19 World Cup-winning cricketer Manjot Kalra has been granted bail by a Sri Lankan court, subject to conditions imposed in its order, marking a significant development in the match-fixing case in which he was arrested last month.

Kalra, co-owner of the Jaffna Kings franchise in the ongoing Lanka Premier League (LPL), was arrested last month following allegations of corruption. He and co-accused Yuvraj Pushpa had initially been remanded in custody from July 17 to July 31 after their earlier bail plea was rejected by Colombo Chief Magistrate Asanga S. Bodaragama.

At the earlier hearing, defence counsel K.W.S. Fernando had sought bail on medical grounds, arguing that both accused were unwell. The prosecution opposed the plea, submitting that the Sri Lanka Police Special Investigation Unit for the Prevention of Offences Relating to Sports was still conducting its investigation. The magistrate rejected the application and ordered that the remand continue.

According to Kalra's legal team, the court has now granted him bail subject to conditions.

The statement said the order followed submissions made by senior counsel K. Wasantha S. Fernando and his team, who represented Kalra during the proceedings.

Kalra's defence has denied the allegations and maintained that the former opener is innocent.

"The defence team has strongly contested the allegations levelled against Mr. Kalra and remains confident in presenting the relevant facts and circumstances before the appropriate forum. Mr. Kalra has maintained his innocence and continues to have full faith in the judicial process," the statement said.

The legal team added that it would continue to pursue all remedies available under law while fully cooperating with the court and investigating authorities. It also said Kalra would comply with all bail conditions and cooperate with the ongoing proceedings.

"The defence remains confident that the truth will emerge through the due process of law," the statement added.

The alleged corruption complaint was filed by Sri Lanka internationals Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Avishka Fernando and Dunith Wellalage. The court was earlier informed that two more domestic cricketers had subsequently joined the complaint.

The Lanka Premier League, a five-team tournament comprising 24 matches, is scheduled to conclude on August 8.

As the matter remains sub judice, Kalra's legal team said it would make no further public comments and would address the case through the appropriate legal process.

Tags : Manjot Kalra, match fixing, Lanka Premier League, legal, investigation