Abu Dhabi T10: Sunny Dhillon banned for six years under anti-corruption code

Sunny Dhillon, a former assistant coach of a franchise team in the Abu Dhabi T10 Cricket League, has been banned from all forms of cricket for six years for breaching the Emirates Cricket Board’s (ECB) Anti-Corruption Code. The decision, announced on Tuesday by the International Cricket Council (ICC), follows allegations of attempts to manipulate match outcomes during the 2021 edition of the tournament.

Dhillon was one of eight individuals charged last year for violating the Anti-Corruption Code. According to the ICC, the breaches were uncovered through efforts by the Designated Anti-Corruption Official (DACO) and the ICC during the 2021 tournament.

After a comprehensive hearing, which included written and oral arguments, the Tribunal found Dhillon guilty of multiple violations, including:

• Article 2.1.1: Being involved in an attempt to fix, contrive, or improperly influence matches or aspects of matches.
• Article 2.4.4: Failing to disclose full details of approaches or invitations to engage in corrupt conduct.
• Article 2.4.6: Failing or refusing to cooperate with the DACO’s investigation without compelling justification.

The six-year ban has been backdated to September 13, 2023, when Dhillon was provisionally suspended.

This announcement comes as the 2024 edition of the Abu Dhabi T10 Cricket League concluded with the Deccan Gladiators delivering a commanding performance. The team achieved a 105-run target with eight wickets in hand and more than three overs to spare against the Morrisville Samp Army at the Zayed Cricket Stadium. England’s Jos Buttler was named Player of the Tournament for his stellar performances throughout the competition.