/betbarter/media/agency_attachments/3YXcMKaocLoKtpo5Mw2o.png)
/betbarter/media/media_files/2025/06/17/9wwsqgfc4soCxwsC1ryi.webp)
In an interesting turn of events, Dindigul Dragons and the team captain Ravi Ashwin have been cleared of the ball-tampering charges by the Tamil Nadu Premier League (TNPL) and Tamil Nadu Cricket Association (TNCA) officials.
Moving into the details of the incident, Madurai Panthers had alleged that the Dragons had tampered with the match ball using chemical-laced towels. The allegations were made after the Dragons bagged a nine-wicket win on Saturday, June 14, at the SCF Cricket Ground in Salem.
However, the Tamil Nadu Cricket Association (TNCA) has confirmed that there was no evidence found in its review of ball tampering in the above-mentioned game, asserting that the towels in question were issued by the Association and are equally available to both teams.
"The towels in question were TNCA-issued and equally available to both teams. 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 TNPL CEO Prasanna Kannan said in a statement.
To make things more interesting, the Madurai Panthers have an option to explore an independent enquiry on the matter. However, the formal request needs to be raised before 3 PM IST 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 statement read.
"TNCA cautions that baseless or defamatory allegations may lead to disciplinary action under the TNCA Code of Conduct and Operational Rules,” the statement concluded.
Moving into the details of the game, the Panthers were restricted to 150/8 after batting first. Dragons went on to finish the game in only 13 overs. Ashwin scored 49 runs off 29 balls while Shivam Singh smashed 86* off 41 balls to form a 124-run opening stand in the chase.
Stay updated with the latest cricket news, match insights, and exclusive updates at BetBarter and download the BetBarter app to start betting today!