In a stunning revelation that has sent shockwaves through the cricketing world and beyond, recent investigations into a major betting app scandal in India have unearthed links to Jannatul Hasan, the younger sister of Bangladeshi cricket star Shakib Al Hasan. The scandal centers around “11wicket.com,” an online betting platform, and the notorious Mahadev betting app, which have been implicated in a vast financial fraud, uncovered last September by India’s Enforcement Directorate (ED).
The Investigation Unfolds
The investigation by the ED unearthed a complex web of financial transactions and investments tied to the Mahadev betting app, revealing the involvement of high-profile individuals across the subcontinent. Amid the names emerged that of Jannatul Hasan, who is reported to have invested in “11wicket.com,” according to sources cited by Indian media outlets India Today and Aaj Tak.
The Allegations and Arrests
Two businessmen, Girish Talreja and Suruj Chokhani, were arrested in connection with the case. The ED sources disclosed that Chokhani had invested a whopping 40 crore INR in a Kathmandu casino and was also involved in the “11wicket.com” betting app, with Jannatul Hasan being mentioned as a partner in this venture.
Shakib Al Hasan’s Stance
When approached for comments, Shakib Al Hasan opted not to comment on the allegations involving his sister. Attempts to reach Jannatul Hasan for her side of the story were unsuccessful.
Cybercrime Units and Official Responses
Cybercrime units and official bodies in Bangladesh, including the Dhaka Metropolitan Police’s Cyber and Special Crimes division and the Bangladesh Computer Council’s BGD e-GOV CIRT, have expressed unawareness of the “11wicket.com” app and have not yet received any official complaints or information regarding the matter.
Shakib’s Previous Encounters with Controversy
Shakib Al Hasan is no stranger to controversy, having previously faced a one-year ban from cricket in 2019 for failing to report a corrupt approach. Additionally, in 2022, his endorsement deal with betting-related entity Betwinner News drew criticism and was eventually terminated following pressure from the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB).
A New Chapter in Politics
Adding another layer to the saga is Shakib Al Hasan’s recent foray into politics, where he was elected as a Member of Parliament from the Magura-1 constituency on an Awami League ticket in the twelfth national elections held on January 7.
The Broader Impact
The involvement of a celebrity cricketer’s family member in a betting scandal not only raises questions about the ethical implications for the individual and the sport but also highlights the pervasive nature of online betting networks across borders. As investigations continue, the cricketing community and fans await further developments, hoping for clarity and resolution in a case that blurs the lines between sports, ethics, and legality.