The Tamil Nadu Premier League (TNPL) has cleared the Dindigul Dragons and their captain R. Ashwin of any ball-tampering allegations. The accusations were made by Siechem Madurai Panthers after the Dragons secured a nine-wicket victory on Saturday, June 14. The Panthers claimed that chemical-laced towels were used to alter the ball.
However, the Tamil Nadu Cricket Association (TNCA) conducted a review and found no evidence supporting these claims.
“The towels in question were issued by the TNCA and made available to both teams,” TNPL CEO Prasanna Kannan stated. “The match officials, including the umpires and match referee, monitored the ball throughout the game. No concerns were raised during the match, and no concrete evidence has been presented. The accusations seem speculative and after the fact.”
Despite this, the Madurai Panthers have the option to request an independent investigation, provided they submit credible evidence—such as video, photos, or witness accounts—by 3 PM on Tuesday, June 17.
The TNPL also warned the franchise that if the allegations are found to be baseless, disciplinary action could be taken under TNCA’s Code of Conduct.
In the match in question, the Panthers posted 150/8, with Ashwin bowling four overs for 27 runs. The Dragons chased down the target in less than 13 overs, with Ashwin scoring 49 off 29 balls and Shivam Singh remaining unbeaten on 86 from 41 balls. Together, they shared a 124-run opening partnership.
