The Matale High Court has completed the trial against match-fixing accused Akash Patel, also known as Yogi Patel, in absentia, with the judgment expected on March 10, 2025.
Patel, the manager of Kandy Samp Army, was charged after Sri Lanka’s chief cricket selector, Upul Tharanga, revealed Patel's attempt to fix matches during the 2024 Legends League tournament. Despite a court-imposed travel ban,
Patel reportedly fled to the USA, and the court directed the CID to investigate how he left the country. His defense argued he fled due to threats to his life, but the prosecution countered, stating he had never reported such threats. Key witnesses testified, and CCTV evidence was presented. Judge Premaratne ordered an Interpol warrant for Patel’s arrest.