The series was secured even though the bid was just US$ 1.4 million (Rs. 189 million).

The Taj television bid fell at such a low price despite them bidding a staggering US$ 2.5 million per match of the Indian - Sri Lankan Test series that falls in 2017.

This has led to raised eyebrows and much doubts in the field.

It is being doubted whether underhand money was involved when giving the TV rights of the series to Taj television at such a low bidding price.

Adding to the suspicions, the tender calling was advertised on one single national newspaper and on the SLC official website only.

Who is this 'sir'?

The tender was opened on June 03 at 2.30pm at the Taj Samudra Hotel, Colombo, 'Sri Lanka Mirror' learns.

Ten Sport representatives present at the event were being accommodated at the same hotel.

According to CCTV footage of the hotel, SLC Head of Marketing & Communications - Vajira Dasanayake had gone to the representatives' rooms on several occasions, just before the tender was opened.

He had continuously been on the phone soon after coming out of the rooms addressing someone as 'Sir', we learn.

Speaking to 'Sri Lanka Mirror', a veteran in the field said that all these facts raise doubts on the deal and it is also suspicious whether Vajira had a hand in it.