The BCCI has stepped up its efforts to tackle corruption in domestic cricket, with the board's Anti-Corruption Unit now closely monitoring state-level T20 leagues across the country.

The move comes amid concerns over possible contact between players, team officials, owners and individuals linked to betting networks. According to reports, the BCCI's Anti-Corruption and Security Unit (ACSU) has received information about alleged approaches made to players and team owners by bookies and other suspicious individuals.

BCCI Takes an Unprecedented Step

This is reportedly the first time the BCCI's anti-corruption machinery has taken such an extensive approach to monitoring state T20 competitions.

Earlier, anti-corruption officials primarily focused on major tournaments and international fixtures, including Test matches and the IPL. The latest move means state T20 leagues are also receiving much closer attention.

Officials are reportedly monitoring not only what happens on the field but also the activities of players and team members away from matches. This includes keeping track of meetings and interactions involving players and team officials at hotels during tournaments.

TNPL Investigation Raised Concerns

The BCCI's latest action is believed to have been influenced by concerns that emerged during the Tamil Nadu Premier League last year.

Some teams associated with the tournament reportedly came under the scrutiny of the Anti-Corruption Unit over suspected corruption-related activities.

According to the reported assessment, the issue may not be limited to the TNPL. The BCCI is concerned that potential links between bookies, players and team owners could exist across several domestic T20 competitions.

Several State T20 Leagues Under Watch

A number of state associations conduct their own T20 tournaments during the June-to-August window, shortly before the start of the domestic cricket season.

These include leagues associated with states and regions such as Mumbai, Saurashtra, Bengal, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Punjab, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Assam and Jharkhand.

With so many tournaments taking place during the same period, the BCCI's anti-corruption officials are now paying closer attention to suspicious activity surrounding these competitions.

Players and Owners Could Face Action

Reports suggest that several individuals are already on the ACSU's radar. Their activities are being monitored to determine whether they have violated anti-corruption regulations.

If investigators find evidence of wrongdoing, the individuals involved could face disciplinary action under the applicable cricketing rules.

The BCCI's increased surveillance sends a clear message: corruption-related activities will not be limited to high-profile tournaments, and domestic T20 competitions will also face strict scrutiny.

With state leagues becoming increasingly popular and offering opportunities to emerging players, maintaining the integrity of these tournaments has become an important priority for Indian cricket's governing body.