Which Is the No. 2 Fixing Team in IPL

Following the 2013 spot-fixing scandal that saw Chennai Super Kings and Rajasthan Royals suspended, questions persist about the extent of corruption in the IPL's early years. While CSK is most discussed, Rajasthan Royals' direct involvement through player spot-fixing makes them the second name in any honest accounting.

Rajasthan Royals' Direct Involvement

Three Rajasthan Royals players were arrested in 2013 for spot-fixing: Sreesanth, Ajit Chandila and Ankeet Chavan. They were accused of conceding pre-determined runs at specific moments, a direct corruption of on-field action.

Separately, co-owner Raj Kundra was found guilty of betting on IPL matches, including those involving his own team. The combination of player fixing and owner betting made Rajasthan's case particularly damning.

The Sreesanth Case

Sreesanth's fall was the most shocking. A World Cup winner and former India international, his arrest dominated headlines. He received a life ban from the BCCI, later reduced, but his international career was over.

The pacer's defence maintained his innocence, and he eventually returned to domestic cricket. But the stigma of the scandal never fully lifted, a cautionary tale about how quickly reputations can collapse.

Comparison with Chennai

While Chennai's case involved betting by an official (Meiyappan), Rajasthan's involved actual spot-fixing by players on the field. In terms of corrupting the sport itself, many consider the RR player offences more serious.

Both teams received identical two-year suspensions from the Lodha Committee, reflecting that both betting by insiders and spot-fixing by players strike at the game's integrity.

Return and Redemption

Rajasthan Royals returned in 2018 and have rebuilt their reputation steadily. The franchise invested in youth, developed a distinct identity around backing young Indian talent, and reached the final in 2022.

The current Royals bear little resemblance to the 2013 side. New ownership structures, stricter compliance and a fresh generation of players have moved the franchise forward.

Anti-Corruption Legacy

The 2013 scandal transformed cricket's approach to integrity. The BCCI's Anti-Corruption and Security Unit was strengthened, player education became mandatory, and reporting requirements tightened.

Every IPL player now undergoes anti-corruption briefings. The lesson of 2013, that no one is above suspicion, reshaped how the sport protects itself.

FAQs

Which was the No. 2 fixing team?

Rajasthan Royals, with three players charged with spot-fixing and their co-owner found guilty of betting, alongside Chennai Super Kings in the 2013 scandal.

Who were the RR players involved?

Sreesanth, Ajit Chandila and Ankeet Chavan were arrested and charged with spot-fixing in 2013.

What happened to Sreesanth?

Sreesanth received a life ban (later reduced) and his international career ended, though he eventually returned to domestic cricket.

How long were teams suspended?

Both Chennai Super Kings and Rajasthan Royals were suspended for two years (2016-2017).

Did Rajasthan win after returning?

Rajasthan Royals reached the IPL final in 2022 after their return, showing strong rebuilding.

What changed after 2013?

Stricter anti-corruption protocols, mandatory player education and empowered integrity units transformed the league's defences.