 "No evidence was found against R Ashwin in the ball-tampering allegations. Image: Dindigul Dragons on X")
Former Indian cricketer R Ashwin has been cleared of ball-tampering in the Tamil Nadu Premier League (TNPL) after no evidence was found against the all-rounder. Siechem Madurai Panthers had raised the ball-tampering allegations against Dindigul Dragons captain Ashwin.
Siechem Madurai Panthers accused Dindigul Dragons and Ashwin of using chemical-laced towels to tamper with the ball during their TNPL match, which they lost by nine wickets on Saturday (14 June).
No evidence found against Ashwin
The Tamil Nadu Cricket Association (TNCA), however, cleared Dindigul Dragons and Ashwin after a review as it found no evidence of ball-tampering.
“The towels in question were TNCA-issued and equally available to both teams,” the TNPL CEO Prasanna Kannan said in a statement. “The Playing Control Team-including 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.”
TNCA also added that the Madurai Panthers can still request an independent inquiry into the ball-tampering allegations, but they will need to submit a formal request by 3 PM on Tuesday (June 17).
“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).”
Tamil Nadu Cricket Association also sent a warning to the Panthers that if their allegations are proved wrong, they will have to face consequences. “TNCA cautions that baseless or defamatory allegations may lead to disciplinary action under the TNCA Code of Conduct and Operational Rules.”
Coming back to the said match. Panthers batted first and scored 150 in the game that was played in Salem. Ashwin registered figures of 4-0-27-0 while bowling and later opened the innings, scoring a match-winning 49 off 29 balls. He stitched a 124-run opening stand with Shivam Singh, who scored an unbeaten 86.