A massive illegal betting operation worth ₹5,000 crore has been exposed ahead of the Champions Trophy 2025 final between India and New Zealand in Dubai. Delhi Police arrested several high-profile bookies, seizing large sums of cash, electronic devices, and critical evidence linking the syndicate to international networks.
Among those detained were Praveen Kochar and Sanjay Kumar, who were actively betting on the India-Australia semi-final. During interrogation, Kochar admitted to operating from a rented house, earning ₹40,000 per match. Investigations confirmed that the network was controlled from Dubai, with ties to the notorious underworld group D-Company.
Reports suggest that major cricket tournaments attract international bookies to Dubai, where high-stakes betting is coordinated through underworld channels. With India as the tournament favorite, betting markets have seen a surge in wagers favoring the team.
India vs. New Zealand: A High-Stakes Champions Trophy Final
The highly anticipated final will take place in Dubai on Sunday. India remains unbeaten in the tournament, while New Zealand’s only loss came against India in the group stage. India secured a spot in the final by defeating Australia, while New Zealand advanced after overcoming South Africa in Lahore.
