Cricketers Suresh Raina and Shikhar Dhawan seized 11.14 crore assets; Actions related to 1xbet betting platform

 
Former cricket star's property seized; EDCI under PMLA, shadow of betting scam
**Mumbai, 6 November 2025**: The shadow of legal action is looming over the lives of two famous former players of Indian cricket. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has temporarily seized movable and immovable assets worth Rs 11.14 crore belonging to former Indian cricketers Suresh Raina and Shikhar Dhawan as per the provisions of PMLA (Prevention of Money Laundering Act). The crackdown is said to be related to an international betting platform called 1xBet, which has sent the cricket world into a tizzy.
According to information given by ED officials, the seizures are due to alleged promotional agreements related to the 1xBet platform. Or Raina and Dhawan are being doubted for promoting betting on cricket events on the platform. The seized assets include mutual fund investments worth Rs 6.64 crore owned by Suresh Raina and immovable property worth Rs 4.5 crore owned by Shikhar Dhawan. The property has been temporarily seized and its use has been prohibited during the investigation process.
Suresh Raina, known as 'Mr. Finisher', had a stellar performance for Chennai Super Kings in the 2010 IPL. He played 18 Tests, 226 ODIs and 78 T20 Internationals for India. Raina, who retired in 2020, would have been Wade Lawley for his aggressive batting. On the other hand, Shikhar Dhawan, fondly known as 'Gabbar' or 'Jackie Bhai', played an important role as India's opening batsman. Dhawan, who retired in 2024, represented India in 34 Tests, 167 ODIs and 76 T20 Internationals. His aggressive style made him a star for teams like Delhi Daredevils (aka Delhi Capitals) and Punjab Kings in the IPL.
The 1xBet platform is an international online betting website known for gambling on a variety of sports. According to the gambling laws of India, the real money on such platforms is taken abroad and publicized through social media. The ED claims that Raina and Dhawan would have signed endorsement deals for the platform, which would have given them financial benefits. This agreement was allegedly linked to money laundering, action was taken under PMLA. ED said that the seizure itself is in the preliminary stage of investigation and more information will be revealed in future.
This incident raises many questions in the cricket world. A discussion has started on what should be the role of such promotional agreements in the professional career of former players after their retirement. The BCCI should have earlier warned the players to be cautious about signing deals with such dubious brands. However, questions arise as to how stringent such rules are for retired players. Some people and analysts are of the opinion that this action will affect the families of the cricketers financially and will be a blow to their image.
A key ED official said, "The investigation is underway and we are collecting all relevant evidence. The seizure is only temporary, but strict action will be taken if there is any violation of the law." There is no official response from Raina and Dhawan yet, but it is expected that the legislation will come soon from their administrators.
This episode highlights the growing threat of money laundering in the sports industry in India. In the last few years, ED has conducted such cases against many celebrities, which includes Bollywood stars and other sportspersons. The revelation of such a series of scams in cricket, which is like a religion in India, is shocking for the fans. Experts are of the opinion that BCCI and government agencies should come together and implement guidance programs for the players, so that such incidents can be avoided.
Or the seizure is likely to have consequences for the future professional careers of Raina and Dhawan. Raina is currently active as a commentator and Dhawan is active in IPL coaching. The action taken will result in their brand value, it is interesting to watch. Turtas, since the investigation is underway, cricket fans are standing in favor of their favorite players and have faith in the judicial system.
ED's action alone is not just a matter of dignity for the players or both, but is a warning sign for the entire sports and entertainment industry. When gambling is promoted in the name of celebrities, it has adverse consequences for ordinary citizens. The government has taken a strict role against such platforms, more such actions are expected in future.
(The news agency: This news is based on the available information. It will be updated as new information emerges during the investigation process.)