Home
The Ravichandran Ashwin-led Dindigul Dragons have been accused of ball tampering by another Tamil Nadu Premier League (TNPL) franchise Siechem Madurai Panthers. According to a report by The Indian Express, Madurai complained to the TNPL authorities about Dindigul using chemically treated towels to alter the condition of the ball. This accusation comes after both the sides clashed against each other on June 14.
The match saw Dindigul completely dominate on both the batting and bowling fronts. They first restricted Madurai to a below-average total of 150/8 and went on to chase down the target of 151 in just 12.3 overs, losing only one wicket in the process.
Ashwin played a great inning during the run-chase
Ashwin, who opened the innings alongside Shivam Singh, helped in getting his side off to a fantastic start and played a brilliant knock of 49 runs from 29 deliveries. His opening partner Shivam however, stole the show with his unbeaten inning of 86 runs from just 41 deliveries.
However, following the encounter, D Pooja, CEO of the Madurai franchise, wrote a letter to the TNPL authorities and alleged that Dindigul tampered with the ball despite several warnings. “The ball produced a metallic sound when it came into contact with the bat,” the letter read. She claimed that the chemical treatment of the ball by Ashwin's side altered its movement.
TNPL CEO Prasanna Kannan has confirmed that Madurai's complaint has been acknowledged even though it was submitted after the 24-hour window had closed. However, he further stated that if the accusations turn out to be inappropriate then Madurai could end up facing sanctions.
“We have asked the Madurai Panthers to submit concrete proof. If any evidence is presented, we will form an independent committee to investigate. However, without sufficient proof, such serious accusations against a player and a franchise are inappropriate, and Madurai could face sanctions," Kannan stated.
The ongoing TNPL season is the ninth edition of the tournament. A total of three rounds have so far been completed in the ongoing campaign and its Chepauk Super Giants, who are currently at the top of the table, having won all of their first three matches. On the other hand, Dindigul stand fifth with four points from three matches while Madurai sit on the sixth place with two points from three games.
The tournament has a total of eight teams and will comprise of 32 matches. The league stage will conclude on June 29 and the playoffs will begin from July 1. Finally, the penultimate match of the campaign will be held on July 6.
ADVERTISEMENT
