The International Cricket Council (ICC) has launched an investigation into the Canadian cricket team over allegations of match corruption and governance issues. These allegations include Canada's loss to New Zealand at the recent T20 World Cup hosted by India and Sri Lanka.

The match in Chennai, which Canada lost by eight wickets, has come under scrutiny following corruption claims highlighted in a documentary aired by the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC) on Thursday. Andrew Ephgrave, interim general manager of the ICC's Integrity Unit, stated: "The ACU (anti-corruption unit) is aware of the programme broadcast by CBC."

The documentary by the public broadcaster made wide-ranging accusations of corruption and poor governance against Cricket Canada. According to the ESPN Cricinfo website, suspicion in the Chennai game is focused on the fifth over bowled by captain Dilpreet Bajwa during New Zealand's chase, which started with a no-ball, included a wide, and ultimately conceded 15 runs.

The ICC is also investigating a phone call involving former Canada coach Khurram Chohan, in which he claims that senior Cricket Canada board members pressured him to select certain players. Ephgrave added: "Governance matters in relation to ICC members are considered by the ICC, where they fall under its jurisdiction, in accordance with the ICC's standard constitutional processes."

Cricket Canada said on its website that it is treating the matter with "utmost importance": "Recent promotional material alludes to allegations related to organised crime and match-fixing – issues that Cricket Canada takes extremely seriously. Where matters are raised, we are committed to reviewing them responsibly and taking appropriate steps as needed."

Source: www.aljazeera.com