4 Sep 2025 : Indian cricketer Shikhar Dhawan appeared before the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Wednesday in connection with an ongoing investigation into a major illegal betting app network. The case involves allegations of money laundering and illegal online gambling activities that have been under ED’s scanner for several months.
According to sources, Dhawan was summoned to provide information regarding certain financial transactions that allegedly link him to promotional campaigns of a now-banned betting platform. The ED clarified that Dhawan has been called in as a witness, not as an accused.
ED’s Statement
An ED official, speaking on condition of anonymity, stated, “Shikhar Dhawan’s name came up during our investigation into the betting app syndicate. He was asked to join the probe to clarify certain payments made to his account in 2023–24.”
The official added that Dhawan fully cooperated with investigators and provided all documents and digital communications requested by the agency.
Dhawan’s Response
Sources close to the cricketer said he maintained that he had no involvement in illegal betting operations and that any association was purely professional through legitimate brand endorsements.
“Shikhar is confident that the truth will come out. He has always upheld the spirit of cricket and is committed to cooperating with the authorities,” a representative for Dhawan stated.
Background of the Case
The ED’s probe is linked to a wider crackdown on illegal betting apps that have proliferated across India, drawing huge sums of money through unregulated online gambling. These apps allegedly routed funds through offshore accounts, triggering concerns of money laundering.
Over the last few months, several celebrities, influencers, and businesspersons have been summoned for questioning as part of the investigation. The case gained attention after multiple arrests and seizure of assets worth crores of rupees.
Impact on Cricket
While Dhawan has not been an active member of India’s playing XI recently, he remains a prominent figure in domestic cricket and the Indian Premier League (IPL). The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has not yet issued an official statement on his questioning but is believed to be monitoring the situation closely.
Legal experts note that if Dhawan’s role is proven to be limited to promotional activities, he is unlikely to face legal trouble. However, if evidence emerges of direct involvement in betting operations, it could lead to further scrutiny.
Public Reaction
Fans expressed mixed reactions on social media, with many supporting Dhawan and others demanding strict action against anyone found connected to illegal betting.
Summary
Cricketer Shikhar Dhawan appears before ED in an illegal betting app probe, clarifies financial transactions, and cooperates with investigators, stating his involvement was limited to legitimate brand endorsements.