Ashwin's team cleared of ball-tampering charges in TNPL

Dindigul Dragons and their team captain, R Ashwin, have been cleared of the ball-tampering charges by Tamil Nadu Premier League (TNPL). Siechem Madurai Panthers had raised the allegations against Dragons of tampering with the match ball using chemical-laced towels, following the latter's nine-wicket win on Saturday (June 14) night.

The Tamil Nadu Cricket Association (TNCA) said its review found no evidence of ball-tampering in the said game.

"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."

The Madurai -based franchise, however, has the option to explore an independent enquiry on the matter, the formal request for which has to be raised 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).

The TNPL has also cautioned the franchise of the consequences in case it is proven to be baseless accusations. "TNCA cautions that baseless or defamatory allegations may lead to disciplinary action under the TNCA Code of Conduct and Operational Rules."

After restricting the Panthers to 150/8, in which Ashwin returned figures of 4-0-27-0, Dragons overhauled the target in under 13 overs. Ashwin (49 off 29) and shivam Singh (86* off 41) put on a 124-run opening stand to set up the chase.