The 2013 IPL spot-fixing scandal is still remembered as one of the darkest chapters in Indian cricket, which destroyed the careers of many Rajasthan Royals players, including S. Sreesanth.
Sports News: The 2013 IPL spot-fixing scandal in Indian cricket is still considered a dark chapter. In this very case, former Rajasthan Royals spinner Ankeet Chavan, found guilty, is returning to cricket in a new role after a decade. The Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) has appointed Ankeet Chavan as the head coach of its under-14 team, giving his cricket career a new direction.
Lifetime Ban in 2013
In 2013, Delhi Police arrested three Rajasthan Royals players, S. Sreesanth, Ajit Chandila, and Ankeet Chavan, on charges of spot-fixing during the IPL. Following this, the BCCI's disciplinary committee imposed a lifetime ban on all three. Although the Delhi trial court acquitted them in 2015 due to lack of evidence, the BCCI maintained the ban. Later, in 2021, Ankeet Chavan's ban was reduced to seven years, allowing him to return to competitive cricket in 2023.
Second Innings Begins in Coaching
Ankeet Chavan did not give up and completed his coaching qualifications. He obtained Level-1 coaching certification and remained active in club cricket. Now, the MCA has shown faith in him and made him the head coach of Mumbai's under-14 team. In a conversation with the 'Indian Express', Ankeet said, "This is the second innings of my life, and I am grateful to the MCA for trusting me again. My aim is to build a b foundation for the children so that they can become excellent players in the future."
Why is this appointment special?
Mumbai cricket has always been known for nurturing talent. Many legends like Sachin Tendulkar, Rohit Sharma, Ajinkya Rahane have emerged from here. In such a scenario, the MCA assigning the responsibility of the under-14 team to Ankeet Chavan indicates that the institution has shown faith in him by giving him a second chance. Ankeet has played 18 first-class, 20 List A, and 13 IPL matches so far. His experience will undoubtedly be helpful in teaching the young players.
The Mumbai Cricket Association has also announced other important appointments for the domestic season. Omkar Salvi will remain the coach of the Ranji Trophy team. Under his leadership, the team performed well, after which he was also made the bowling coach of the IPL franchise Royal Challengers Bangalore. Meanwhile, Sandeep Patil has once again been appointed as the chairman of the MCA's senior selection committee.
Why was Ankeet's name in the news?
Ankeet Chavan created a stir in Indian cricket at a time when he was accused of spot-fixing. It is believed that he deliberately conceded more runs in an over, for which he received money from bookies. Although he was legally acquitted of the charges, the BCCI had put a halt on his career.
