When it comes to Indian Premier League (IPL) controversies, one of the most searched — and debated — topics among fans is: “Which is No 2 fixing team in IPL?” While the question itself sparks strong opinions and heated discussions, it’s essential to look at the facts, legal findings, and historical events rather than rumors or social media chatter.
In this article, we’ll explore the IPL’s darkest chapter — the 2013 spot-fixing scandal — and look into the teams and individuals who were involved. While no official rankings have ever labeled any team as the “No. 1” or “No. 2” fixing team, some franchises have found themselves in trouble due to player misconduct, management links to bookies, and spot-fixing allegations. Let’s dive deep into the timeline, controversies, and the truth behind the perception.
The Infamous 2013 IPL Fixing Scandal: A Dark Turn
The IPL had always been marketed as cricketainment — a perfect blend of sports, celebrity, and glamour. However, in 2013, it was rocked by a massive spot-fixing and betting scandal that shook the foundation of the league.
On May 16, 2013, Delhi Police arrested three Rajasthan Royals players — S. Sreesanth, Ajit Chandila, and Ankeet Chavan — for allegedly being involved in spot-fixing. Investigations revealed that they were in contact with bookies and were paid to concede a certain number of runs during matches in exchange for money.
This triggered a nationwide investigation, eventually exposing more layers of the scandal, including the involvement of Gurunath Meiyappan, the Team Principal of Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and the son-in-law of then BCCI President N. Srinivasan. Meiyappan was arrested by Mumbai Police for his alleged links with betting syndicates, and this brought CSK under heavy scrutiny.
Rajasthan Royals: The First to Fall
Among the teams that suffered the most severe consequences was Rajasthan Royals (RR). The arrest of three of its players led to a significant public backlash, and the franchise’s name became synonymous with match-fixing during that time.
Further investigation revealed that some team owners were also allegedly involved in betting activities. As a result, the Lodha Committee, appointed by the Supreme Court of India, recommended a two-year suspension of Rajasthan Royals from the IPL, starting from the 2016 season.
This punishment remains one of the harshest disciplinary actions in the history of the league, effectively damaging the team’s reputation and causing them to rebuild their brand from scratch when they returned in 2018.
Chennai Super Kings: Caught in the Crossfire
Chennai Super Kings, one of the most successful and beloved teams in IPL history, was also dragged into the scandal. The arrest of Gurunath Meiyappan, a senior official of CSK, for betting-related charges, brought the team under investigation.
While no players from CSK were accused of fixing or betting, the association of a top management figure with illegal betting activities led to widespread outrage. The Lodha Committee held that CSK’s management failed to maintain the integrity of the sport.
Consequently, CSK was suspended for two years alongside Rajasthan Royals. The decision shocked fans but was viewed as necessary to uphold the credibility of the tournament.
Despite this setback, CSK made a strong comeback in 2018 by winning the IPL title, but the stigma from the scandal still follows them in certain circles of cricket fans.
Which Is No. 2 Fixing Team in IPL: The Real Meaning
Now, let’s address the elephant in the room — which team is considered the No. 2 fixing team in IPL? The truth is, there is no official ranking or list that categorizes IPL teams based on their involvement in match-fixing or betting scandals.
However, in public perception, based on the 2013 incidents and the extent of the punishments, Rajasthan Royals and Chennai Super Kings are the two teams most associated with fixing controversies.
If one considers RR as the team most affected — due to player arrests and ownership allegations — then CSK is often dubbed as “No. 2” because their senior official was found guilty of betting, leading to a two-year ban despite no player involvement.
It’s critical to understand that these labels are not official and are largely shaped by media narratives, fan opinions, and online speculation.
Other Teams and Rumors
Over the years, several IPL franchises have faced minor controversies, often based on fan banter or media stories. However, there’s no credible evidence or legal action against other major teams like:
- Delhi Daredevils (now Delhi Capitals)
- Punjab Kings (formerly Kings XI Punjab)
- Mumbai Indians
- Royal Challengers Bangalore
- Sunrisers Hyderabad
While some matches have been scrutinized due to unusual performances or on-field decisions, none of these teams have been officially charged or suspended due to match-fixing or betting activities.
It’s worth noting that the absence of evidence does not equate to innocence, but without formal action or credible reports, speculation remains just that — speculation.
The Role of BCCI and ICC: Cracking Down on Fixing
Following the 2013 scandal, both the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the International Cricket Council (ICC) significantly stepped up their efforts to curb corruption.
Here’s how the anti-corruption system works now:
- BCCI’s Anti-Corruption Unit (ACU) actively monitors all IPL matches.
- Players are educated on dos and don’ts during the tournament.
- Each team has a dedicated Integrity Officer.
- Any suspicious activity must be immediately reported.
- The ICC ACU also monitors betting markets and works with intelligence agencies globally.
These steps have created a much safer and more transparent environment in recent seasons, although isolated incidents of spot-fixing attempts still occur — mostly involving lower-league players or unverified sources.
Fixing Allegations vs. Proof: A Word of Caution
It’s easy to throw around terms like “fixing” and point fingers, especially on social media. However, allegations do not equal guilt. Legal procedures, verified evidence, and judicial outcomes must be the standard for judgment.
Both CSK and RR served their suspensions, returned to the tournament, and continue to participate without further fixing controversies. It’s essential to base our discussions on facts, not emotions or team rivalries.
Summary: A League That Has Grown Stronger
While the IPL’s image did take a hit in 2013, it has since emerged stronger and more resilient. The steps taken by BCCI, the suspensions served by the involved teams, and the new regulatory framework have helped restore public trust.
Still, the shadow of the 2013 scandal looms large in IPL history, and fans continue to debate “which team was worse?” or “which is the No. 2 fixing team?”
As things stand today:
- Rajasthan Royals was the most visibly affected team.
- Chennai Super Kings, due to top-level management issues, is often considered “next in line.”
- No other IPL teams have been officially implicated in match-fixing at this scale.
FAQs About which is no 2 fixing team in ipl
Q1. Which team was banned from IPL for fixing?
A: Rajasthan Royals and Chennai Super Kings were both banned for two seasons due to their involvement in the 2013 IPL spot-fixing and betting scandal.
Q2. Was CSK involved in match-fixing?
A: While no CSK players were found guilty of fixing, team official Gurunath Meiyappan was arrested for betting-related offenses, which led to the team’s suspension.
Q3. Is fixing still happening in IPL?
A: There have been no major fixing scandals in recent years, thanks to stringent monitoring and anti-corruption measures by BCCI and ICC.
Q4. Who was the first team to be banned in IPL?
A: Rajasthan Royals and CSK were both suspended at the same time in 2015, following the Lodha Committee’s recommendations.
Q5. Can a player get banned for spot-fixing?
A: Yes, players like S. Sreesanth and Ankeet Chavan have been banned due to confirmed involvement in spot-fixing.
Final Thoughts
Labeling any team as the “No. 2 fixing team in IPL” is a subjective opinion rooted in past events and public perception. While Rajasthan Royals and Chennai Super Kings have been part of confirmed controversies, they’ve also faced the consequences and have moved forward.
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