Ravichandran Ashwin, captain of Dindigul Dragons and former India all-rounder, has been given a clean chit by the Tamil Nadu Premier League (TNPL) following ball-tampering allegations made by the Siechem Madurai Panthers. The controversy erupted after Dindigul’s thumping nine-wicket win on June 14, when Madurai accused Ashwin’s side of using chemically treated towels to manipulate the condition of the ball.
No verifiable evidence vs Ashwin
However, after a thorough review, the Tamil Nadu Cricket Association (TNCA) found “no verifiable evidence” to support the claims. “The towels in question were TNCA-issued and equally available to both teams,” said TNPL CEO Prasanna Kannan in an official statement. “The Playing Control Team, including umpires and the match referee, maintained full oversight of the ball throughout the game. No concerns were raised during play, and the complaint appears speculative and post-facto in nature.”
“Should the franchise possess credible and verifiable evidence, they may submit a formal request for an Independent Commission of Enquiry by 3 PM on 17th June, along with supporting material (video, photographic, or testimonial).
The Madurai franchise, if possessing additional evidence, has until June 17 to request an independent inquiry. If proven to be a baseless accusation, disciplinary action under the TNCA Code of Conduct may follow.
Topsy-turvy TNPL 2025 for Ashwin
Playing his first TNPL after getting retired as an international player, Ashwin is having a rather iffy season. This is not the only disciplinary issue Ashwin has faced in TNPL 2025. The 37-year-old was fined 30% of his match fee after showing dissent in a match against IDream Tiruppur Tamizhans on June 8. The incident occurred when he was given out LBW while attempting a sweep off R Sai Kishore. Visibly frustrated, Ashwin remonstrated with the umpire, hit his pads with the bat, and flung his gloves in the dugout.
Despite the off-field drama, Ashwin continues to lead from the front. He scored 49 off 29 and partnered with Shivam Singh (86* off 41) in a 124-run opening stand to help Dindigul chase down 151 in under 13 overs against Madurai. However, with the ball, he has taken just three wickets in four innings at a bowling strike rate of 28.00.
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