The ICC Investigates Cricket Canada’s CEO for Alleged Misconduct
The International Cricket Council (ICC) has raised concerns over the appointment of Salman Khan as the Chief Executive Officer of Cricket Canada in January. Just weeks after Khan’s promotion, Calgary Police charged him and former league treasurer Syed Wajahat Ali with theft and fraud amounting to approximately CAD 200,000 from the Calgary & District Cricket League between 2014 and 2016.
ICC Demands Explanation
The ICC, in a letter dated 2 May 2025, has requested Cricket Canada to provide a detailed account of the recruitment process that led to Khan’s appointment. The letter also seeks clarification on whether the board was aware of the allegations against Khan before his promotion, the date when the board first learned of the investigation, and any governance or disciplinary actions taken since the charges were made public.
The seriousness of the charges against Khan, particularly in relation to his role as a cricket administrator, has prompted the ICC to scrutinize the situation and demand transparency from Cricket Canada.
Controversial Appointment and Contracts
Questions have been raised regarding the circumstances surrounding Khan’s appointment as CEO. Despite being elected as a Board Director in June 2023, Khan relinquished his position prematurely to assume a salaried role as CEO, sparking speculation that this move was made to avoid potential repercussions outlined in the board’s bylaws.
It has been revealed that Khan’s employment contract as CEO includes a five-year term with no at-will termination clause, a protective measure that could leave Cricket Canada financially liable if they decide to remove him from the position before the contract’s completion.
Commercial Deals Under Scrutiny
Following Khan’s appointment, Cricket Canada entered into significant commercial agreements, including a new partnership with the National Cricket League (NCL) Canada to operate the GT20 brand after terminating a long-standing contract with Bombay Sports.
However, concerns have been raised about the approval process of the deal with NCL, as the organization had been banned by the ICC for rules breaches. Additionally, an alternative proposal from the ICC-sanctioned league ILT20 was allegedly not presented to the full board for consideration.
Timeline of Events
- June 2023 – Khan elected as a director of Cricket Canada.
- January 2025 – Khan resigns as director and becomes the CEO under a five-year contract.
- 12 Mar 2025 – Khan and Ali charged with theft and fraud by Calgary Police.
- 13 Mar 2025 – Cricket Canada announces consultation with legal experts in light of the charges.
- 14 Apr 2025 – Board announces partnership with NCL Canada for GT20, despite ICC ban on NCL events.
- 2 May 2025 – ICC issues formal inquiry to Cricket Canada.
Governance experts emphasize that associate members like Cricket Canada could face funding freezes or administrative intervention if they fail to comply with ICC standards. The Board has 14 days to respond to the ICC’s inquiries, and the thoroughness of their reply will determine the potential consequences.
Cricbuzz reached out to Khan, Bajwa, and Rana for comments, but there has been no response as of press time.
Impact on Canadian Cricket
The allegations and investigations surrounding Cricket Canada’s CEO have had a significant impact on the cricket community in Canada. With the sport growing in popularity across the country, the integrity and transparency of the governing body are crucial to maintaining the trust of players, fans, and sponsors. The ongoing scrutiny of Cricket Canada’s leadership has raised concerns about the organization’s ability to effectively manage the sport’s development and promotion in the country.
Public Reaction and Support
Amidst the controversy, there has been a mixed reaction from the public and cricket enthusiasts in Canada. While some have expressed shock and disappointment at the allegations against Khan and the issues within Cricket Canada, others have shown support for the governing body’s efforts to address the situation transparently and ensure accountability. The outcome of the ICC’s investigation and any subsequent actions taken by Cricket Canada will likely shape public perception and confidence in the organization moving forward.
Rebuilding Trust and Governance Reform
Regardless of the investigation’s outcome, the incident has highlighted the need for governance reform within Cricket Canada. Strengthening accountability, transparency, and ethical standards in the organization’s leadership is essential to rebuilding trust and safeguarding the future of cricket in Canada. Implementing stricter protocols for executive appointments, contract agreements, and commercial deals can help prevent similar issues from arising in the future and demonstrate a commitment to upholding the sport’s values and principles.
International Ramifications
The ICC’s involvement in the case underscores the global implications of misconduct within national cricket associations. As the governing body for international cricket, the ICC plays a crucial role in upholding standards of governance, integrity, and fair play across its member organizations. Any failures to meet these standards not only impact the reputation of individual associations but also reflect poorly on the broader cricketing community worldwide. The outcome of the investigation into Cricket Canada’s CEO could set a precedent for how similar cases are handled in the future and signal the ICC’s commitment to maintaining the integrity of the sport at all levels.
Looking Ahead
As Cricket Canada navigates through the ICC’s inquiry and addresses the allegations against its CEO, the organization faces a critical juncture in its governance and management practices. The decisions made in response to the investigation will shape the future trajectory of cricket in Canada and influence the perception of the sport both domestically and internationally. By prioritizing transparency, accountability, and ethical conduct, Cricket Canada can work towards rebuilding trust, strengthening its governance structures, and fostering a positive environment for the growth and development of cricket across the country.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the investigation into Cricket Canada’s CEO for alleged misconduct has raised important questions about governance, accountability, and transparency within the organization. The outcome of the ICC’s inquiry and Cricket Canada’s response to the allegations will have far-reaching implications for the sport of cricket in Canada and beyond. By addressing the issues at hand, implementing necessary reforms, and reaffirming its commitment to integrity, Cricket Canada can emerge from this challenging period stronger and more resilient, ensuring that the sport continues to thrive and bring communities together through the spirit of cricket.