Shivalik Sharma, a young cricketer associated with the Mumbai Indians team, has been arrested on rape charges. Reports indicate the charges stem from allegations of sexual assault under the pretext of marriage.
Sports News: Cricketer Shivalik Sharma, previously selected for the Mumbai Indians in the Indian Premier League (IPL), is now in the headlines due to a sensational and serious allegation. Following an accusation of rape under the pretense of marriage filed by a young woman in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, police have arrested Sharma.
The arrest was made on Saturday from the Atladara police station area in Vadodara, Gujarat, after which he was brought to Jodhpur and presented before a court, where he was remanded to judicial custody.
Friendship Began on Instagram, Leading to Love and Then Allegations
The 26-year-old Sharma, originally from Vadodara, Gujarat, met the victim through Instagram. Their online acquaintance gradually developed into a romantic relationship. Their intimacy grew to the point that Sharma frequently visited Jodhpur to meet the woman. Reports suggest they were even engaged, leading the woman to believe the relationship would culminate in marriage.
However, the victim alleges that despite their engagement, Sharma delayed the marriage while continuing the sexual relationship. Even after over a year together, she claims he refused to marry her. Furthermore, according to the victim, Sharma's family also rejected the relationship, prompting her to file a First Information Report (FIR) at the Kudi Bhagatsani Housing Board police station in Jodhpur.
From Cricketer to Accused: Shivalik's Journey
Sharma, who was part of the Mumbai Indians team in 2024, was considered a promising batsman. He was bought for ₹20 lakh in the IPL 2024 auction, although he did not play a single match. No team signed him this year (2025). He previously played for Baroda in domestic cricket.
In 18 first-class matches, he has scored 1087 runs, including 3 centuries and 5 half-centuries. His List-A and T20 scores stand at 322 and 349 runs respectively. His last match was against Jammu and Kashmir in the Ranji Trophy in January 2025.
Police have registered a case under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and launched an investigation. After his arrest, he was brought to Jodhpur and presented before the court, where he was remanded to 14 days of judicial custody. A detailed investigation into the matter is underway, and further legal action will be taken based on the victim's statement and other evidence.
