Former cricketer Robin Uthappa issued clarification in the light of an arrest warrant that was issued against him in the Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF) deposits fraud case. (More Cricket News)
The arrest warrant directed Uthappa to pay outstanding dues of Rs 23,36,602 to the workers of Centaurus Lifestyle Brands Pvt. Ltd where the former cricketer was appointed a director.
The former India international said that he did not have an active role in the companies and was not involved in day-to-day operations.
"In light of recent news of the PF case against me, I would like to provide some clarification with regards to my involvement with Strawberry Lencería Pvt. Ltd., Centaurus Lifestyle Brands Pvt. Ltd., and Berryz Fashion House," Uthappa wrote in a statement that he posted on X.
"In 2018-19, I was appointed as a director in these companies due to my financial contributions to them in the form of loans. However, I did not have an active executive role, nor was I involved in the day-to-day operations of the businesses," wrote the cricketer, who resides in Dubai, in his note.
Further in his statement, he said, "Given my demanding schedule as a professional cricketer, TV presenter, and commentator, neither did I have the time nor expertise to participate in their operations. In fact, I do not play an executive role in any other companies I have funded, till date."
“Regrettably, these companies failed to repay the funds I lent them, leading me to initiate legal proceedings, which are currently sub judice. I also resigned from my directorships several years ago. When the Provident Fund authorities issued notices demanding payment of dues, my legal team responded, highlighting that I had no role in these companies and provided documentation from the companies themselves confirming my lack of involvement,” he said.
Uthappa played 59 matches and was part of the side that won the inaugural 2007 T20 World Cup.
