New Delhi, Aug 18:
The BCCI is set to intensify its anti-corruption monitoring of state-level T20 leagues amid concerns over alleged approaches by bookmakers and suspicious individuals to players, franchise owners and team officials.
According to reports, the Boardâs Anti-Corruption and Security Unit (ACSU) will, for the first time, extend comprehensive coverage to every match played in state-run T20 competitions.
The ACSUâs extensive monitoring has traditionally focused on international cricket, the Indian Premier League and major domestic tournaments. However, the growing number of state leagues held between June and August has prompted the Board to widen its scrutiny to competitions that previously received comparatively limited anti-corruption coverage.
Sources cited in reports said the ACSU has detected an increase in unauthorised contact involving players, owners and managers, prompting the latest move.
The unit is expected to pay particular attention to the interactions of players and team officials at hotels during tournaments. Franchise owners are also likely to come under closer scrutiny amid concerns that they could be targeted by betting syndicates.
The crackdown follows a series of breaches of anti-corruption protocols, including incidents involving mobile phones in restricted areas.
In the ongoing Tamil Nadu Premier League, an all-rounder who made his Ranji Trophy debut during the 2025-26 season was fined Rs 1 lakh and suspended for the remainder of the tournament after being found carrying an undeclared smartphone into the Players and Match Officials Area (PMOA).
Communication devices are prohibited inside the PMOA under anti-corruption protocols, with players and support staff required to deposit mobile phones and smartwatches with security officials before entering the restricted zone.
Reports suggest the TNPL incident was not an isolated case, with at least six players across different state leagues having been caught using smartphones in PMOA areas.The ACSU has also reportedly cautioned players about smart glasses and other wearable devices capable of recording or transmitting audio and video.