Ravichandran Ashwin and his Tamil Nadu Premier League (TNPL) franchise, Dindigul Dragons, have been cleared of ball-tampering allegations following a formal review by tournament officials.
The Siechem Madurai Panthers had accused Ashwin and his team of using chemical-laced towels to tamper with the match ball, allegedly making it heavier. These claims came into libht after the Panthers suffered a heavy nine-wicket defeat at the hands of the Dragons on Saturday, 14 June, in a rain-affected match in Salem.
Dindigul chased down a target of 151 in just 12.3 overs. After going wicketless with the ball, Ashwin came good with the bat, smashing a brisk 49 off 29 deliveries. The Panthers bowlers struggled throughout the innings, and subsequently alleged that external substances were used to alter the ball’s condition.
Organizers dismisses baseless allegations
The Madurai-based franchise had called for an investigation into the towels used during the match and requested a chemical analysis to determine whether any foreign agents had been applied to the ball.
However, TNPL authorities confirmed that no official complaints or concerns were raised during the match by either the umpires or team representatives.
“No protest or concern regarding ball tampering was raised during the match by any official or team representative,” TNPL CEO Prasanna Kannan said in a statement. “The allegation appears to be post-facto, speculative in nature, and based solely on internal team communications without supporting evidence.”
The TNPL has invited the Madurai Panthers to submit credible and verifiable evidence by 3 PM on 17 June should they wish to pursue a formal inquiry. Acceptable materials include video footage, photographs, or witness testimonies.
The Tamil Nadu Cricket Association (TNCA) also issued a warning, stating that baseless or defamatory allegations could result in disciplinary measures.
“TNCA cautions that baseless or defamatory allegations may lead to disciplinary action under the TNCA Code of Conduct and Operational Rules,” the statement read.
Should the Madurai Panthers fail to provide adequate proof, they could themselves face sanctions in accordance with the TNCA’s regulations.
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