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.
However, 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.
