The D-Gang Volunteer – Mohammad Azharuddin in Net ? Terror, Match fixing, Drugs , HCA 20 cr.funds misappropriation – By Ahmed Sohail Siddiqui.

This investigative report explores the complex and controversial life of former Indian cricket team captain Mohammad Azharuddin. From his rise as one of India’s most celebrated cricketers to his alleged involvement in match-fixing, links with criminal syndicates, and personal controversies, the story of Azharuddin presents a multifaceted narrative that is both inspirational and troubling.

Mohammad Azharuddin: The Rise to Stardom

Azharuddin’s career began humbly when he first visited my Uncle’s family’s house in Delhi, accompanied by fellow cricketer Syed Kirmani, before his meteoric rise during the Australian tour. Azhar made history by scoring three consecutive centuries, cementing his place in Indian cricket. At that time, Azhar was a practicing Muslim who maintained his humility and close ties with my family, even as his fame grew.

As a young player, Azhar’s demeanor was that of a gentleman, committed to his religion and professional growth. His frequent interactions with our family may have been driven by shared religious and cultural values, as well as the respect our family commanded in Urdu-speaking circles. However, over time, Azhar’s personal and professional life would change dramatically.

Personal Life and Shift Away from Religious Identity

Azharuddin’s personal transformation began when he divorced his first wife, a modest and well-educated Hyderabadi Muslim woman, and married Bollywood actress Sangeeta Bijlani. This marked a significant shift in Azhar’s lifestyle, moving him from his traditional roots to a more glamorous and high-profile existence. His shift in identity seemed to parallel his growing ambition and desire for social mobility, distancing him from his previous circle of friends and his faith-based lifestyle.

His second marriage, too, ended in divorce, further complicating his personal life. The controversies surrounding his personal relationships, including the way he allegedly treated his first wife, added to the perception of a man who was now driven by a desire for fame, money, and power.

Allegations of Match-Fixing and Criminal Associations

Perhaps the most damaging aspect of Azharuddin’s legacy revolves around his alleged involvement in match-fixing. The mid-1990s saw the rise of underworld influence in Indian cricket, with notorious figures like Dawood Ibrahim’s D-company allegedly involved in match-fixing activities. The revelations that Azharuddin had connections with criminal syndicates and was involved in fixing matches sent shockwaves through the cricketing world and tarnished his once spotless reputation.

According to my recollection, Azhar made a chilling remark to me regarding a teammate: Gaa”nd Pey goli lagegi” (a threat of shooting). This incident provides a glimpse into Azhar’s evolving character, suggesting that he had aligned himself with dangerous elements. His connections with the D-gang, particularly through his friendships with figures involved in training D in gold smuggling and organized crime, raise serious questions about how deeply entrenched he was in the world of illicit activities.

Azhar would order this Kuwaiti / Hyderabadi Lion for sandles to be flown from Dubai for Sangita Bijlani.

Asaduddin Owaisi fears him & returns calls immediately to this Bhai who stood with Salar when he needed money most. It is he only who told Owaisi on face that the shervani Asad wears it’s cloth is not less than Rs 20 lakhs.

The infamous match-fixing scandal that rocked the cricketing world saw Azharuddin banned from the sport in 2000. Although the ban was eventually lifted in 2012, the allegations left an indelible stain on his career. The controversy over his association with notorious figures such as Dawood Ibrahim’s circle and his participation in fixing matches for financial gain paints a picture of a man who traded his integrity for wealth and power.

Political Career and Continued Allegations

Azharuddin’s transition into politics, winning a seat in the Lok Sabha representing Moradabad as a Congress candidate, opened another chapter in his public life. However, the shadow of his past continued to haunt him. His proximity to criminal elements and his alleged participation in illegal activities have drawn criticism, and many believe that he has escaped accountability due to his political connections.

Azhar’s involvement in politics, combined with his past ties to the D-gang, raises questions about the extent of his influence and the protection he may have received from political allies. His continued prominence in public life, despite the serious allegations against him, suggests that there may be powerful interests shielding him from full accountability.

Conclusion

The story of Mohammad Azharuddin is a complex one, filled with contradictions. He rose from humble beginnings to become one of India’s most celebrated cricketers, only to fall from grace amid allegations of match-fixing and associations with criminal syndicates. His personal and professional life has been marked by ambition, controversy, and scandal.

While Azhar’s cricketing achievements cannot be denied, the allegations of match-fixing, criminal ties, and threats against teammates on communal grounds are serious charges that deserve further investigation. His political success, despite these controversies, suggests that there may be forces working to protect his reputation.

Azhar should not go scot-free if these allegations hold any merit. For the sake of transparency, justice, and the integrity of both cricket and public office, a deeper inquiry into his links with criminal syndicates and his role in match-fixing is essential. The truth, however uncomfortable, must come to light.

The “D-gang” is an informal term used to refer to the criminal syndicate led by Dawood Ibrahim, one of India’s most notorious underworld figures. Dawood’s organization has been involved in a range of illegal activities, including organized crime, smuggling, extortion, drug trafficking, and terrorism. Over the years, the D-gang’s reach has extended beyond India, making it a formidable transnational crime network with operations in several countries, including Pakistan, the UAE, and the UK.

Here are some key details about the D-gang and its operations:

1. **Origins of the D-gang**

Dawood Ibrahim, the mastermind behind the D-gang, started his criminal career in Mumbai (then Bombay) in the 1970s. Born into a modest family, Dawood initially got involved in petty crimes and later became involved with the Pathan gang, a notorious group in Mumbai at the time. However, in the early 1980s, Dawood broke away from the Pathans and formed his own gang, which would later be known as the D-gang. The D-gang quickly gained control over Mumbai’s underworld, primarily through smuggling, extortion, and black-market operations.

2. **Involvement in the 1993 Mumbai Bombings**

The D-gang’s most infamous involvement in criminal activities was its role in the 1993 Mumbai bombings. These attacks, which involved a series of bomb explosions across the city, killed over 250 people and injured more than 1,000. Dawood Ibrahim is believed to have masterminded the attacks in retaliation for the communal riots that erupted in Mumbai following the Babri Masjid demolition in 1992. The bombings were one of the deadliest terrorist attacks in India’s history, and Dawood’s involvement led to his designation as a global terrorist by the Indian government and various international bodies, including the United Nations.

Dawood fled India in the early 1990s, taking refuge in Pakistan, where he is believed to have enjoyed the protection of the Pakistani intelligence agency, the ISI. Despite repeated requests for extradition by the Indian government, Pakistan has denied Dawood’s presence on its soil, though intelligence reports suggest that he continues to operate from Karachi.

3. **Match-Fixing and Cricket**

By the mid-1990s, Dawood’s influence had extended into the world of international cricket, particularly through match-fixing and betting scandals. His syndicate allegedly orchestrated the fixing of major international matches, including matches in the Cricket World Cup and other high-profile tournaments. The involvement of Dawood and his associates in cricket betting was part of a larger effort to diversify the D-gang’s business interests, which by then included smuggling, drug trafficking, extortion, and real estate deals.

Cricketers from various countries, including India and South Africa, were implicated in match-fixing scandals. The most infamous case was the Hansie Cronje scandal, in which the South African cricket captain admitted to accepting money from bookies, many of whom were linked to the D-gang. Mohammad Azharuddin, the former Indian cricket captain, was also banned for life in 2000 for his alleged role in match-fixing, though his ban was lifted in 2012 by the Andhra Pradesh High Court.

Dawood Ibrahim’s network controlled vast sums of money in illegal betting markets, and fixing matches proved to be a lucrative venture. His involvement with the cricketing world not only undermined the integrity of the sport but also highlighted the extent of the D-gang’s influence.

4. **Political Connections and Corruption**

The D-gang has long been suspected of maintaining close ties with politicians, bureaucrats, and police officials in India and abroad. These relationships have allowed Dawood to evade arrest and continue his criminal activities. Over the years, there have been several allegations of political figures shielding Dawood’s associates, particularly during the match-fixing investigations and other criminal probes.

In fact, Dawood’s ability to operate his vast criminal enterprise even from outside India suggests that his syndicate has deep connections with influential people across various sectors, including politics, law enforcement, and business.

5. **Involvement in Drug Trafficking**

In the 1990s and early 2000s, the D-gang expanded its operations into the global drug trade. Dawood’s network became involved in the trafficking of narcotics, particularly heroin, through South Asia and into Europe and North America. The drug trade provided the D-gang with substantial revenues, helping to fund its other criminal activities, including terrorism.

Dawood’s network is believed to have links with drug cartels in Afghanistan and Pakistan, further entrenching its role in the global narcotics trade. This drug trafficking also ties into Dawood’s alleged connections with militant organizations such as the Taliban and al-Qaeda, where criminal profits are used to finance terrorist activities.

6. **International Operations**

Though based primarily in Pakistan, the D-gang’s operations are global in scale. Dawood Ibrahim has reportedly established business interests and criminal operations in several countries, including the UAE, the UK, Southeast Asia, and Africa. Dubai, in particular, has been a major hub for the D-gang’s smuggling and real estate operations. The gang has also been involved in hawala transactions, a form of informal money transfer system that facilitates money laundering and terrorist financing.

The international reach of the D-gang, combined with its ability to navigate different political environments, has made it one of the most enduring criminal organizations in the world.

7. **Current Status of the D-gang**

Despite the international pressure on Pakistan to hand over Dawood Ibrahim, he remains at large, and his organization continues to thrive. In recent years, there have been reports of the D-gang diversifying its operations into legitimate businesses, including real estate, hospitality, and entertainment, while maintaining its criminal activities. Dawood’s presence in Pakistan, under the alleged protection of the ISI, allows him to evade arrest and continue managing his syndicate from the shadows.

Although Dawood’s physical presence may be elusive, his criminal empire remains influential and continues to pose a threat to regional and international security.

Conclusion

The D-gang’s reach is vast and far-reaching, touching everything from organized crime and terrorism to politics and sports. Its involvement in the match-fixing scandals of the 1990s exposed the dark underbelly of international cricket, and its continued operations in drug trafficking, smuggling, and money laundering make it one of the most powerful criminal syndicates in the world.

For individuals like Mohammad Azharuddin, being linked to such an organization—whether through match-fixing or other associations—represents not just a personal downfall but also a broader indictment of how criminal enterprises can infiltrate areas of public life. The D-gang’s influence remains a potent reminder of the intersection of crime, politics, and corruption in contemporary global affairs.

Match-fixing, particularly in cricket, has been a major scandal that has rocked the sport over the past few decades. It involves manipulating the outcome of a match or specific parts of it (such as individual performances, runs scored, or wickets taken) for illicit financial gain, usually through illegal betting syndicates. The scandalous nature of match-fixing has not only tarnished the reputations of many high-profile cricketers but has also exposed deep-seated corruption within the sport.

1. **The Mechanics of Match-Fixing**

Match-fixing in cricket is often orchestrated by criminal syndicates, such as the D-gang, and involves multiple players, umpires, bookies, and intermediaries. The betting markets for cricket, particularly in countries like India where betting on sports is largely illegal, create a fertile ground for fixing. Criminal organizations manipulate matches to align with betting odds, ensuring a huge profit for those involved in the scam.

There are generally two types of match-fixing:

**Full Match Fixing:** Manipulating the entire match result (i.e., which team wins or loses).
**Spot-Fixing:** Manipulating specific events within a game, such as a certain player getting out on a particular ball or a specific over conceding a set number of runs.

2. **Key Match-Fixing Scandals in Cricket**

Several high-profile match-fixing scandals have emerged in cricket over the years, involving players from different countries, including India, South Africa, Pakistan, and more. Some of the most infamous scandals include:

**Mohammad Azharuddin and the Indian Match-Fixing Scandal (2000)**

One of the most notorious scandals in Indian cricket involved former captain Mohammad Azharuddin. In 2000, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) of India implicated him in match-fixing after an extensive investigation. He was accused of conspiring with bookies to fix matches for financial gain.

**Allegations:** Azharuddin was allegedly in contact with bookies like Mukesh Gupta, who claimed to have paid the cricketer large sums of money to fix matches. Azhar reportedly introduced other cricketers to bookies, expanding the corruption network within the Indian team.

**Outcome:** Azharuddin was handed a life ban by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) in 2000. He denied the allegations, but the ban severely damaged his reputation. In 2012, the Andhra Pradesh High Court overturned his ban, citing a lack of evidence, but the scandal left a lasting stain on his career.

**Hansie Cronje and the South African Match-Fixing Scandal (2000)**

Perhaps the most shocking match-fixing scandal involved South African captain Hansie Cronje, one of the most respected figures in world cricket. In 2000, Cronje admitted to receiving money from bookies to influence the outcomes of matches, leading to his eventual downfall.

**Allegations:** Cronje confessed to accepting money from Indian bookies to manipulate certain match situations. One of the primary figures in this scandal was Sanjeev Chawla, a notorious bookie from Delhi with deep connections to the underworld.

**Outcome:** Cronje was banned for life from cricket. His admission of guilt shocked the cricketing world and exposed the wide reach of illegal betting syndicates. Cronje’s death in a plane crash in 2002 led to speculation, with some believing that he was silenced to protect others involved in the fixing scandal.

**Pakistan Spot-Fixing Scandal (2010)**

The Pakistan cricket team was embroiled in one of the most controversial fixing scandals during their 2010 tour of England. Three Pakistani cricketers—Salman Butt, Mohammad Amir, and Mohammad Asif—were found guilty of spot-fixing during a Test match at Lord’s.

**Allegations:** The players were accused of accepting bribes from a bookmaker, Mazhar Majeed, to deliberately bowl no-balls at specific points in the match. This was part of a larger spot-fixing operation aimed at manipulating betting markets.

**Outcome:** The players were banned by the International Cricket Council (ICC) and later convicted in a UK court. Salman Butt was banned for 10 years, Mohammad Asif for seven years, and Mohammad Amir for five years. All three were also sentenced to prison terms. The scandal significantly damaged Pakistan’s cricket reputation at the time.

**IPL Spot-Fixing Scandal (2013)**

The Indian Premier League (IPL), one of the biggest and richest T20 cricket leagues globally, was hit by a spot-fixing scandal in 2013. Several players, including Indian cricketer S. Sreesanth, and team officials were implicated in a match-fixing and betting racket.

**Allegations:** Sreesanth, along with fellow Rajasthan Royals players Ankeet Chavan and Ajit Chandila, were accused of deliberately underperforming in exchange for money from bookies. The involvement of team officials, including Gurunath Meiyappan of the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Raj Kundra, co-owner of the Rajasthan Royals, in illegal betting activities further tainted the IPL.

**Outcome:** The players were banned, with Sreesanth receiving a life ban (later reduced). The BCCI imposed heavy sanctions on CSK and Rajasthan Royals, suspending both teams for two years from the IPL. The incident highlighted the pervasive nature of illegal betting and fixing in even the most prestigious cricket tournaments.

3. **How the D-Gang and Other Syndicates Operated**

The D-gang’s involvement in cricket fixing highlights how deeply criminal syndicates have infiltrated the sport. Dawood Ibrahim’s criminal empire, with its extensive connections in South Asia, the Middle East, and beyond, played a significant role in manipulating cricket matches, especially in the 1990s.

**Bookie Networks:** Criminals like Dawood would use an extensive network of bookies in countries like India, Dubai, and Pakistan. These bookies would approach players directly or through intermediaries, offering large sums of money to fix parts of matches or entire games. Often, vulnerable players or those with financial troubles were targeted.

**Money Laundering:** The profits from match-fixing and betting were often laundered through illegal channels, including the hawala system, a method of money transfer that operates outside the conventional banking system. This allowed the syndicates to conceal the origin of their funds and evade law enforcement scrutiny.

**International Reach:** The D-gang and other betting syndicates operate internationally, often using Dubai as a hub for fixing activities. With significant investments in real estate, hospitality, and other businesses, they maintained legitimate fronts for their illicit operations. Dawood’s network had the resources to influence players, coaches, and officials, making it difficult to detect or stop match-fixing.

4. **Impact on Cricket and Reforms**

The exposure of match-fixing scandals significantly impacted the credibility of cricket, leading to widespread disillusionment among fans. It also prompted governing bodies like the ICC and BCCI to implement stricter regulations and measures to combat corruption in the sport.

**Anti-Corruption Units (ACU):** In response to the match-fixing scandals, the ICC and domestic boards established Anti-Corruption Units to monitor and investigate suspicious activities. These units work closely with law enforcement agencies to track betting patterns, player behavior, and potential corruption.

**Player Education:** Players are now educated about the risks of associating with bookies or engaging in corrupt activities. The introduction of strict penalties for match-fixing, including lifetime bans and criminal charges, serves as a deterrent to those considering involvement in such schemes.

5. **Continuing Threats and Challenges**

Despite these efforts, match-fixing continues to pose a threat to cricket. The sheer size of illegal betting markets, especially in South Asia, and the involvement of organized crime syndicates make it difficult to eradicate. The emergence of online betting platforms has also made it easier for syndicates to operate discreetly, complicating efforts to monitor and regulate betting activities.

Moreover, the involvement of underworld figures like Dawood Ibrahim, who have deep-rooted connections with politics, law enforcement, and legitimate businesses, makes it difficult for authorities to fully clamp down on these activities. While high-profile cases have been exposed, it is likely that many more instances of match-fixing go undetected.

Conclusion

Match-fixing scandals in cricket have severely impacted the integrity of the sport, revealing the dark intersection of sports, money, and organized crime. The involvement of criminal syndicates like the D-gang in manipulating matches for financial gain shows how far-reaching the influence of these organizations can be. While reforms and anti-corruption measures have been introduced to combat fixing, the challenge remains significant, especially with the continued presence of illegal betting markets and online platforms. The need for vigilance, transparency, and stricter enforcement remains crucial in preserving the spirit of the game.

Sanjeev Chawla managed to escape India in the immediate aftermath of the 2000 match-fixing scandal due to several key factors, including gaps in law enforcement, timely planning, and leveraging international legal systems to his advantage. Here’s how he orchestrated his escape and evaded Indian authorities for nearly two decades:

1. **Fleeing to the United Kingdom**

After the Delhi Police exposed Chawla’s involvement in the match-fixing scandal, including his pivotal role in bribing South African captain Hansie Cronje, Chawla fled India before authorities could arrest him. He quickly moved to the United Kingdom, where he sought to establish residence and take advantage of the UK’s legal framework, which would later make it harder for Indian authorities to extradite him.

It is likely that Chawla anticipated the fallout from the scandal and prepared for his departure once the investigation closed in on him. His deep ties with international criminal networks, including bookies and syndicates, likely helped him plan his escape.

2. **Obtaining UK Residency**

Once in the UK, Chawla managed to secure legal residency. Reports suggest that he might have used his status as a businessman to establish himself in the UK, which delayed any immediate action against him. At the time, the Indian government did not have strong extradition treaties with the UK, especially concerning financial crimes or sports-related offenses like match-fixing, allowing Chawla to stay relatively safe in London.

During this period, India did not possess strong bilateral extradition enforcement mechanisms with the UK, especially compared to today’s framework. This gave Chawla time to build his legal case and prepare for the impending battle against extradition attempts.

3. **Delaying Extradition Attempts**

India began pursuing Sanjeev Chawla’s extradition soon after it became clear that he was a key figure in the match-fixing scandal. However, Chawla used the UK’s complex legal system to his advantage, delaying the process for nearly two decades through various legal challenges and appeals.

**Claiming Human Rights Violations**: One of the key strategies employed by Chawla’s defense team was the argument that if extradited to India, he would face inhumane conditions, including poor prison facilities and a lack of fair trial guarantees. These claims were rooted in the UK’s strict human rights laws, which prevent extradition if it is believed that the individual will face torture, inhumane treatment, or unfair legal procedures in their home country.

**Health and Safety Concerns**: Chawla’s legal team also cited concerns over his personal safety in Indian prisons, particularly in light of the high-profile nature of the case. His lawyers argued that due to his involvement in a major match-fixing scandal linked to powerful underground networks, his life could be at risk if he were imprisoned in India.

**Legal Appeals and Delays**: Over the years, Chawla used every legal avenue available to delay his extradition. The case saw multiple appeals in UK courts, each time extending the process. The legal framework in the UK allowed Chawla to remain in the country while these appeals were ongoing.

4. **Strengthening India-UK Relations on Extradition**

Despite the delays, India continued its efforts to bring Chawla back to face trial. In the 2010s, India and the UK began improving their extradition cooperation, especially for cases involving economic offenses and other serious crimes. The Indian government strengthened its case by addressing the concerns raised by Chawla’s legal team.

**Prison Conditions**: To counter Chawla’s claims about inhumane prison conditions, Indian authorities assured the UK courts that he would be held in a safe and humane environment. They specifically pointed out that he would be detained in Tihar Jail, New Delhi, which had been improved to meet international standards.

**Fair Trial Guarantees**: Indian authorities also assured the UK government that Chawla would receive a fair and transparent trial, addressing concerns about the justice system’s ability to handle such a high-profile case without prejudice or bias.

5. **Extradition in 2020**

After years of legal battles, the Westminster Magistrates’ Court in London finally approved Chawla’s extradition in 2019. His appeals were exhausted, and the Indian government had sufficiently addressed the concerns about prison conditions and human rights.

In **February 2020**, after nearly two decades of evading Indian authorities, Sanjeev Chawla was extradited to India. He was handed over to the Delhi Police and flown back to New Delhi to face trial. His return marked a significant victory for India in its long pursuit of high-profile fugitives involved in financial and criminal conspiracies.

6. **Impact of His Escape and Return**

Chawla’s long escape and eventual extradition highlight the challenges of dealing with international fugitives, particularly in cases where human rights concerns are raised. His ability to evade justice for nearly 20 years underscores the complexities of international law, especially in cases involving countries with differing legal systems and extradition agreements.

**Delay in Justice**: The two-decade delay allowed Chawla to live freely in the UK while the match-fixing scandal unfolded in India. During this time, the Indian judiciary and law enforcement faced criticism for their inability to swiftly bring him to justice, even though his involvement in the scandal was well-documented.

**Stronger Bilateral Ties**: The eventual success of Chawla’s extradition in 2020 is seen as a turning point in India-UK cooperation on criminal matters. It demonstrated the Indian government’s persistence in pursuing fugitives and its willingness to meet international legal standards to secure their return.

Conclusion

Sanjeev Chawla’s escape from India in 2000 and his prolonged stay in the UK were made possible by a combination of legal strategy, exploitation of human rights laws, and gaps in international cooperation at the time. His eventual extradition in 2020, after years of delays and legal battles, was a significant moment for Indian law enforcement. Chawla’s return to India to face trial has been seen as a symbol of the Indian government’s commitment to bringing those involved in major financial and criminal conspiracies to justice.

The D-Company, a notorious criminal syndicate led by Dawood Ibrahim, has long been associated with a variety of illegal activities, including smuggling, extortion, drug trafficking, and terrorism. One of the D-Company’s most lucrative ventures in the 1990s and early 2000s, however, was its involvement in **cricket match-fixing and illegal betting**, and the infamous *match-fixing scandal* that emerged in the late 1990s and early 2000s further underscored the D-Gang’s reach in the world of sports.

Here’s how D-Company, specifically Dawood Ibrahim and his associates, played a key role in match-fixing and influencing the sport for profit:

1. **Dawood Ibrahim’s Control Over the Betting Syndicate**

Dawood Ibrahim and his D-Company had significant control over the illegal betting markets, not just in India but internationally. Cricket, being a major sport with millions of followers, became an ideal target for organized crime. Betting on cricket, especially in India, was (and still is) massive, even though it was illegal.

**Dawood’s Influence**: The D-Gang controlled a large portion of the illegal betting market through its extensive network of bookies and middlemen, many of whom operated out of India and the Gulf countries. Their involvement allowed them to manipulate betting odds and maximize profits by fixing matches.
**Match-fixing for Profit**: The D-Company’s primary motive in match-fixing was financial gain. By fixing the outcome of key matches and events within games, they could control the flow of betting money, ensuring massive earnings by manipulating outcomes.

2. **Role in Major Match-Fixing Scandals**

The match-fixing scandals that erupted in the late 1990s and early 2000s, involving players from India, South Africa, and Pakistan, had deep links to D-Company. Through bookmakers and intermediaries, the syndicate influenced players to underperform or fix certain aspects of matches.

**1999-2000 Scandal**: The match-fixing scandal involving former South African cricket captain Hansie Cronje is one of the most high-profile cases that revealed the involvement of Dawood’s network. Cronje admitted to receiving money from bookmakers, who were in turn connected to D-Company’s betting syndicates. Bookie Sanjeev Chawla, who was one of the key middlemen, was directly linked to the D-Company, acting as a conduit between the players and the underworld.

**Involvement of Indian Players**: Several Indian cricketers, most notably *Mohammad Azharuddin*, were also implicated in match-fixing allegations, with some reports suggesting direct connections to Dawood’s network. Azharuddin was banned from cricket for life after investigations by the BCCI (Board of Control for Cricket in India) found him guilty of fixing matches.

Although the specific nature of D-Gang’s direct involvement with Azharuddin is murky, it’s widely believed that *bookmakers* who worked closely with Dawood had influenced key Indian players to fix games for large sums of money. Azharuddin’s rise to power and his eventual downfall was believed to be linked to his involvement with these bookies, who were themselves connected to Dawood’s betting syndicates.

**Other Players and Teams**: The D-Company also had connections with several international players, beyond just India and South Africa. Pakistani players like *Salim Malik* and *Ata-ur-Rehman* were banned after investigations into match-fixing revealed their links to the betting syndicates controlled by the D-Gang.

3. **The Modus Operandi of D-Gang in Match-Fixing**

Dawood Ibrahim’s network operated through a system of intermediaries, mainly bookies who had direct access to cricketers. These bookies, including individuals like **Sanjeev Chawla**, offered large sums of money to players in exchange for throwing games or underperforming in specific situations.

**Approaching Players**: Bookies, often posing as wealthy businessmen or influential figures, would approach cricketers offering them lucrative deals to fix matches. Some players, either due to greed or fear, would agree to participate in the fix.
**Manipulating Matches**: Fixing did not always involve throwing an entire match. Sometimes, players were asked to manipulate smaller events within the game, such as deliberately underperforming in specific overs, or losing wickets at critical times to affect betting outcomes.
**Leveraging Threats and Intimidation**: While money was the primary motivator, in some cases, players were coerced into cooperating through threats. Dawood’s criminal organization was notorious for using violence and intimidation, which added an element of fear to players who were reluctant to participate in fixing.

4. **Money Laundering and Global Networks**

The D-Company used match-fixing not just for immediate profit but also for laundering money from its various illegal enterprises. The enormous sums bet on cricket matches provided a convenient way to move and clean money from their other activities, such as drug trafficking and extortion.

**Hawala Networks**: D-Company utilized the **hawala system**, an informal and illegal method of transferring money across borders, to facilitate payments to players and manage betting operations. This allowed them to operate across countries, from India to the Middle East, where Dawood was primarily based.

**Dubai as a Hub**: Dubai, in particular, emerged as a critical hub for these operations. Many of Dawood’s associates, including bookies, operated out of Dubai, where the betting syndicates were managed. High-profile individuals from various industries, including sports, frequented Dubai, making it easier for the D-Gang to coordinate their match-fixing operations from there.

5. **Post-1993 Mumbai Blasts and Cricket’s Connection**

After the **1993 Mumbai bomb blasts**, orchestrated by Dawood Ibrahim and his network, the D-Gang shifted much of its business overseas, with a significant focus on match-fixing. The bombings had forced many members of Dawood’s syndicate underground or out of the country, but they continued to operate globally, especially in the realms of betting and fixing cricket matches.

The underworld’s involvement in match-fixing escalated during this period, as the D-Gang sought to diversify its operations. The revenue generated from these activities not only helped fund other criminal operations but also kept Dawood’s organization financially strong despite its growing international notoriety.

6. **Impact on Cricket and Reputation of the Game**

The D-Company’s involvement in match-fixing severely tarnished the reputation of cricket, particularly in the late 1990s and early 2000s. It caused immense damage to the credibility of the sport, as several prominent cricketers were either banned or implicated in fixing.

**Disillusionment Among Fans**: Fans were disillusioned with their favorite players and teams after revelations of match-fixing and the involvement of criminal syndicates like D-Gang. This period led to calls for stricter regulations and oversight in cricket to prevent such corruption in the future.

**Creation of Anti-Corruption Units**: In response to the massive scandal, the International Cricket Council (ICC) and national cricket boards like the BCCI created Anti-Corruption Units (ACUs) tasked with monitoring players, teams, and suspicious betting activities. These units were set up to deter fixing and ensure that the sport remained free from the influence of criminal organizations.

Conclusion

The D-Company, led by Dawood Ibrahim, played a significant role in manipulating the outcome of cricket matches through its control over the illegal betting syndicate and deep connections with bookmakers. By leveraging financial incentives and sometimes threats, the D-Gang exploited cricket’s global popularity for its own financial gain.

The involvement of D-Company not only exposed the vulnerability of the sport to criminal elements but also forced governing bodies to take stronger measures against match-fixing. Though several players and bookies were eventually banned or prosecuted, the D-Gang’s influence in the world of match-fixing left a lasting stain on cricket, particularly during the 1990s and early 2000s.

Mohammad Azharuddin, one of India’s most successful and stylish cricketers, had a dramatic fall from grace due to his involvement in a match-fixing scandal in the early 2000s. Here’s a detailed account of what happened to him following the scandal:

1. **Rise to Stardom**

Azharuddin’s cricketing career began on a high note in the early 1980s. He made his Test debut for India in 1984 and instantly became a national sensation by scoring three consecutive centuries in his first three matches. Over the next decade, he established himself as one of India’s best middle-order batsmen, known for his wristy strokeplay and elegance.

Azharuddin captained the Indian cricket team in the 1990s and led the team in three consecutive ICC World Cups (1992, 1996, and 1999). He was regarded as one of the most successful Indian cricket captains and enjoyed tremendous popularity both on and off the field.

2. **Match-Fixing Allegations (2000)**

The downfall of Azharuddin’s illustrious career came in 2000 when the Delhi Police uncovered a massive match-fixing scandal involving prominent international cricketers. The match-fixing racket came to light after the police tapped conversations between Indian bookie **Sanjeev Chawla** and South African cricket captain **Hansie Cronje**. Cronje eventually admitted his involvement in fixing, and the investigation expanded to include Indian players.

Azharuddin’s name surfaced during the investigation, and he was accused of being involved in fixing matches. He was specifically accused of helping facilitate contact between bookies and other players, including Cronje. It was alleged that Azharuddin accepted bribes from bookies to influence the outcome of several matches during his tenure as a player and captain.

3. **Life Ban by the BCCI (2000)**

In December 2000, after an investigation by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), Azharuddin was found guilty of match-fixing. The BCCI imposed a **lifetime ban** on him from playing professional cricket, effectively ending his career.

**Denial of Allegations**: Throughout the controversy, Azharuddin consistently denied his involvement in match-fixing, claiming he was innocent. He attributed his downfall to being targeted for his religion, suggesting that he was a victim of a conspiracy.

**Impact on Reputation**: The lifetime ban severely damaged Azharuddin’s reputation. Once a beloved sports icon, he became a symbol of cricket’s darkest chapter. Fans and the cricketing fraternity were shocked by the allegations, and his fall from grace became a major media story in India.

4. **Legal Battle and Court Victory (2012)**

After being banned, Azharuddin fought a long legal battle to clear his name. For years, he maintained his innocence and challenged the BCCI’s decision in court.

In **2012**, after nearly 12 years, the Andhra Pradesh High Court ruled in Azharuddin’s favor, overturning the life ban. The court concluded that there was insufficient evidence to justify the BCCI’s decision, effectively exonerating him from the match-fixing charges. The decision was a major relief for Azharuddin, though it came too late for him to resume his cricket career.

5. **Political Career**

Despite the match-fixing scandal, Azharuddin transitioned into politics soon after his cricketing career ended. In 2009, he joined the **Indian National Congress (INC)** and successfully contested the **Moradabad** parliamentary seat in Uttar Pradesh during the general elections, becoming a Member of Parliament (MP).

**Political Life**: As a Congress MP, Azharuddin was involved in political activities for a number of years. However, his political career did not see the same level of success as his cricketing career. He lost subsequent elections, and his political influence waned over time.

**Further Elections**: Azharuddin continued to be active in politics, even contesting later elections. He ran for the 2019 general elections from the city of *Sawai Madhopur* in Rajasthan but was not successful.

6. **Return to Cricket Administration**

In the years following the court’s decision in 2012, Azharuddin began making a comeback to cricket, this time as an administrator. In 2019, he was elected as the **President of the Hyderabad Cricket Association (HCA)**, marking his formal return to the sport’s governing circles.

**Cricket Administration**: Azharuddin’s election to the HCA was a significant development, considering his tarnished reputation after the match-fixing scandal. He used his position to advocate for the development of cricket in Hyderabad and to support young cricketers in the region.

**Controversies**: Even after returning to cricket administration, Azharuddin faced criticism and allegations, including accusations of mismanagement and internal conflicts within the Hyderabad Cricket Association. Despite these challenges, he remained active in cricket administration.

7. **Personal Life and Relationships**

Azharuddin’s personal life was also a subject of public interest. He married his first wife, **Naureen**, with whom he had two sons. However, during the peak of his cricketing career, Azharuddin’s personal life became the subject of media scrutiny when he divorced Naureen in 1996 and married Bollywood actress **Sangeeta Bijlani**. The second marriage, too, ended in divorce in 2010.

In 2011, Azharuddin’s elder son, **Ayazuddin**, tragically died in a motorbike accident in Hyderabad. This event deeply affected him, and he largely stayed away from public life for some time.

8. **Azhar: Biopic and Public Image**

In 2016, a Bollywood biopic titled **”Azhar”** was released, based on Mohammad Azharuddin’s life. The film starred actor Emraan Hashmi in the lead role and portrayed Azharuddin’s rise in cricket, his personal and professional controversies, including match-fixing, and his eventual redemption.

The film attempted to paint a more sympathetic picture of Azharuddin, emphasizing his contributions to Indian cricket and his struggle to clear his name. However, it was met with mixed reactions, with some praising it for humanizing the cricketer, while others felt it glossed over his involvement in the scandal.

9. **Current Status**

As of today, Mohammad Azharuddin remains involved in cricket administration, particularly through his role as President of the Hyderabad Cricket Association. While his legacy as a cricketer is complicated by the match-fixing scandal, he continues to be a significant figure in Indian cricket, especially in Hyderabad.

Despite his legal exoneration, the shadow of the match-fixing scandal continues to linger over his career, and his story serves as both a cautionary tale and an example of a professional trying to rebuild his life after a significant fall from grace.

The Summoning by ED of Azharuddin in personal Siphoning of HCA funds to the tune of 20 cr. is a clear case of his criminal behaviour on or off the field…The ED must do justice with this repeated offender… Who has his hands dirty in Politics,drugs,terrorism, fixing & D mafia.

( Ahmed Sohail Siddiqui the writer is a senior Journalist & Chief Editor from New Delhi, NCR . He is among first few acquaintance in 1984 of Mohammad Azharuddin in New Delhi )

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