The Assam Cricket Association (ACA) has taken swift action amid a shocking turn of events in the 2025 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT). Four prominent Assam players — Amit Sinha, Ishan Ahmed, Aman Tripathi, and Abhishek Thakuri — have been suspended with immediate effect for their alleged involvement in corrupt practices.
The move comes after allegations surfaced regarding attempts to influence current Assam team members during the tournament, raising serious questions about the integrity of state-level cricket.
Who Are the Players Suspended?
The suspended players have represented Assam in various capacities over the years. Their identities and roles in the ongoing SMAT 2025 investigation are as follows:
- Amit Sinha – Experienced batter
- Ishan Ahmed – All-rounder
- Aman Tripathi – Bowler
- Abhishek Thakuri – Middle-order batsman
These players are now barred from all state-level matches, training sessions, and cricket-related roles, including coaching, umpiring, or officiating.
What Led to the Suspension?
The ACA’s decision follows a formal inquiry by the Anti-Corruption and Security Unit (ASCU) of the BCCI. Key points from the investigation:
- Alleged influence and instigation of current Assam team players
- Matches held in Lucknow from November 26 to December 8, 2025
- Assam failed to progress to the Super League stage
- Prima facie evidence suggesting involvement in misconduct
Sanatan Das, ACA Secretary, stated:
“Suspension will continue till the final outcome of the investigation, and/or any further decision of the association.”
FIR and Legal Action
To ensure accountability, the ACA has:
- Lodged an FIR at the state police’s crime branch in Guwahati
- Directed district associations, clubs, and academies to comply strictly with the suspension
- Barred suspended players from any cricket-related activity until the investigation concludes
This legal step underscores the seriousness of the allegations and ACA’s commitment to protecting the integrity of Assam cricket.
Impact on Assam Cricket
The suspension affects both the current team and the broader cricket ecosystem in Assam:
- District-level tournaments will proceed without the four players
- Coaches and clubs are required to adhere strictly to ACA’s directives
- SMAT 2025 participation and future talent scouting may be closely monitored
The ACA has emphasized that these measures aim to prevent further deterioration of the situation and ensure fair play in all competitions.
Quick Facts (SMAT 2025 Corruption Case)
- Players Suspended: Amit Sinha, Ishan Ahmed, Aman Tripathi, Abhishek Thakuri
- Tournament: Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2025, Lucknow
- Investigation Body: BCCI Anti-Corruption and Security Unit
- Legal Action: FIR filed at Guwahati Crime Branch
- Suspension Scope: State tournaments, district events, coaching, umpiring, and refereeing
- Duration: Until investigation concludes
Final Takeaway
This incident serves as a wake-up call for state-level cricket in India. ACA’s swift action and coordination with law enforcement demonstrate a zero-tolerance approach to corruption. For Assam cricket fans, the message is clear: integrity comes first, talent second.
The investigation is ongoing, and the cricketing community will be watching closely to see how ACA navigates this crisis while maintaining trust in its players and competitions.
Hi, I’m Alex, a cricket author who follows the game every single day. I write match updates, player stories, league news, and simple guides for fans. My aim is to make cricket easy to read and fun to follow. From international games to local leagues, I track scores, form, and key moments to bring clear and useful content for readers who love the sport as much as I do.
