Cricket Canada has been suspended over serious breaches of its membership obligations, according to the International Cricket Council (ICC). The decision was finalized during a meeting in Ahmedabad, India, amid escalating concerns about governance and corruption within the national cricket body.
What happened
The ICC announced the suspension of Cricket Canada on Sunday, citing “serious breaches of its membership obligations.” This follows the freezing of Cricket Canada’s funding in May after allegations surfaced regarding the organization’s poor governance and failure to file audited financial statements. Interim Chief Operating Officer Bhavjit Jauhar stated the suspension was “unexpected” but confirmed that the organization will not contest the decision.
Amid these governance issues, Cricket Canada has faced explosive allegations from CBC’s investigative unit, the Fifth Estate, including claims of corruption and match-fixing. One national team player alleged that certain players were promoted through the ranks under threats of violence, emphasizing that the culture within the organization has become perilous.
Why it matters
The ICC’s suspension poses significant challenges for Cricket Canada, impacting both its governance and the operational capabilities needed for international competition. As Canadian teams remain eligible to compete in sanctioned events, the broader implications of corruption within the sport could tarnish Canada’s reputation on the global cricket stage.
Background
On May 20, 2026, Cricket Canada was already under scrutiny due to allegations of inadequate governance, leading to the suspension of its funding. In previous months, the Fifth Estate had revealed claims of match-fixing and other scandals linked to the organization. Some reports suggest that the issues are tied to the notorious Lawrence Bishnoi gang, known for its violent activities in Canada and beyond.
What’s next
The ICC plans to provide Cricket Canada with a set of reinstatement conditions, and the organization must meet these requirements for reinstatement to be considered. The ICC has stated that limited financial access will be controlled under its oversight until compliance is achieved.
