Guwahati: The Assam Cricket Association (ACA) on Friday suspended four cricketers for their alleged involvement in corrupt practices linked to the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2025 and lodged a first information report (FIR) with the state police Crime Branch. The players have been accused of attempting to influence and instigate fellow Assam team members during the domestic T20 tournament.

Players suspended by Assam Cricket Association

The four players suspended by the ACA are Amit Sinha, Ishan Ahmed, Aman Tripathi and Abhishek Thakuri. All four have represented Assam at different levels in domestic cricket. The decision to suspend them was taken following preliminary findings that indicated their involvement in activities that could undermine the integrity of the sport.

The ACA stated that the suspensions would remain in force until the completion of the investigation or until any further decision is taken by the association.

Allegations linked to Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy

According to the ACA, the players are accused of influencing and attempting to instigate some members of the Assam squad who participated in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. Assam’s matches in the tournament were held in Lucknow from November 26 to December 8.

Assam failed to qualify for the Super League stage of the competition, and the allegations surfaced during and after the league phase of the tournament. Officials said the nature of the accusations raised serious concerns about fair play and ethical conduct.

BCCI Anti-Corruption Unit conducted enquiry

ACA secretary Sanatan Das said that the Board of Control for Cricket in India’s (BCCI) Anti-Corruption and Security Unit (ACSU) conducted an enquiry after the allegations came to light.

“After the allegations came to light, the Anti-Corruption and Security Unit of the BCCI conducted an enquiry. The ACA has also initiated criminal proceedings. Prima facie, there appears to be their involvement in serious misconduct, affecting the integrity of the sport,” Das said.

Based on the initial findings, the ACA decided to take immediate action to prevent any further damage to the credibility of the game and the association.

FIR lodged with Crime Branch

In addition to the suspensions, the ACA has lodged an FIR with the Crime Branch of the Assam Police against the four players. The move signals that the matter is being treated not only as a disciplinary issue within cricket administration but also as a potential criminal offence.

Police officials are expected to examine the allegations, gather evidence and record statements as part of the investigation. The outcome of the police probe will play a key role in determining the future course of action against the players.

Scope and duration of suspension explained

Sanatan Das said the decision to suspend the players was taken to prevent any further deterioration of the situation. “They have been suspended to curtail any scope of further deterioration of the situation. The suspension will continue till the final outcome of the investigation, and/or any further decision of the Association,” he said.

During the suspension period, the players are barred from participating in any state-level tournaments or matches conducted by the ACA, its district units or affiliated clubs.

Ban on all cricket-related activities

The suspension also prohibits the players from taking part in any cricket-related activities in any capacity. This includes acting as match referees, coaches, umpires or holding any official role connected to cricket under the ACA’s jurisdiction.

Das said that all district cricket associations in Assam have been instructed to ensure strict compliance with the suspension order. Clubs and cricket academies under their control have also been formally informed of the ACA’s decision.

Strong message on integrity of sport

Cricket administrators said the swift action reflects the ACA’s zero-tolerance approach towards corruption and unethical practices. Officials emphasised that maintaining the integrity of the game is paramount, particularly at the domestic level where young and emerging players are involved.

Observers noted that such incidents highlight the ongoing challenges faced by cricket authorities in safeguarding domestic tournaments from corrupt influences, despite increased vigilance and monitoring mechanisms.

Conclusion

The suspension of four Assam cricketers and the lodging of an FIR mark a serious development in Indian domestic cricket. As investigations by both the BCCI’s Anti-Corruption Unit and the state police continue, the case underscores the importance of strict enforcement and accountability to protect the credibility of the sport. The final outcome of the probe is expected to determine whether further disciplinary or legal action will follow.