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R Ashwin and Dindigul Dragons cleared of ball-tampering allegations in TNPL

R Ashwin and Dindigul Dragons cleared of ball-tampering allegations in TNPL

India Today17-06-2025
Former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin and his Tamil Nadu Premier League (TNPL) franchise, Dindigul Dragons, have been formally cleared of ball-tampering allegations following a probe by the Tamil Nadu Cricket Association (TNCA). The charges, brought forward by the Siechem Madurai Panthers, were deemed "speculative" and lacking verifiable evidence.The controversy arose after the Panthers accused the Dragons of using towels "treated with chemicals" to tamper with the ball during their match on 14 June at the Salem Cricket Foundation Ground. The match, which saw Dindigul secure a convincing nine-wicket win, came under scrutiny after Panthers CEO Mahesh S alleged "blatant ball tampering" and demanded an investigation into the source and use of the towels.advertisementHowever, in an official statement, TNPL CEO Prasanna Kannan confirmed that an internal review had found no wrongdoing. "The towels in question were TNCA-issued and equally available to both teams," Kannan said. "The Playing Control Team - including on-field umpires and the match referee - maintained full oversight of the ball throughout the match. No concerns were raised during play, and no verifiable evidence has been provided. The claims appear speculative and post-facto in nature."
According to the TNCA, the towels were issued to teams to dry the ball in the event of wet outfield conditions and were used under umpire supervision. A committee was formed to assess the allegations, but in the absence of credible proof - including video or photographic material - the TNPL has ruled out any further action at this stage.advertisementThe governing body did, however, allow for the possibility of an independent inquiry if the Panthers could submit credible evidence by 3 PM on 17 June. As of the latest update, no such request has been made.Ashwin, who captains the Dragons and is a former India international, bowled four wicketless overs for 27 runs during the match but made a notable contribution with the bat, scoring 49 off 29 balls to help chase down the Panthers' total of 150 with ease. Dindigul completed the chase in just 12.3 overs, with openers Ashwin and Shivam Singh leading the charge.The defending champions now stand with two wins in the 2025 season as they look to retain their TNPL title.
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India call-up wasn't out of the blue for me: Jagadeesan
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Time of India

time2 days ago

  • Time of India

India call-up wasn't out of the blue for me: Jagadeesan

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The Hindu

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