ED summons Yuvraj Singh, Robin Uthappa, Sonu Sood in 1xBet illegal betting probe

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has summoned former Indian cricketers Yuvraj Singh and Robin Uthappa, along with Bollywood actor Sonu Sood, in connection with its investigation into the allegedly illegal betting platform, 1xBet, officials confirmed on September 16.

Sources said Robin Uthappa is expected to appear at the ED’s Delhi headquarters on September 22, followed by Yuvraj Singh on September 23, while Sonu Sood has been directed to appear on September 24.

The summons follow statements recorded from former cricketers Shikhar Dhawan and Suresh Raina, as well as earlier notices to former TMC MP Mimi Chakraborty, actors Urvashi Rautela, and Bengali actor Ankush Hazra, who were questioned in the ongoing probe.

Officials said the investigation is focused on alleged violations of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), examining financial transactions linked to the banned betting platform. Investigators believe promotional activities and financial dealings involving celebrity endorsements could reveal crucial insights into the app’s money flow.

Uthappa, who retired from professional cricket in 2022, had appeared in promotional content for 1xBet. Sources indicated the agency will likely question him about the contracts he signed, payments received, and the nature of his association with the company.

The summons are part of a broader ED crackdown on illegal betting apps in India, targeting platforms that allegedly defrauded users and evaded taxes worth crores of rupees.