R Ashwin Faces Explosive 'Ball Tampering' Allegations. Tamil Nadu Premier League Organisers Say...
Former Indian cricket team spinner R Ashwin has been accused of ball tampering during the Tamil Nadu Premier League (TNPL).
- R Ashwin faces ball tampering accusations during the Tamil Nadu Premier League.
- Madurai Panthers complained that chemically treated towels were used to make the ball heavier.
- Ashwin has been cleared by the TNPL organisers due to the lack of "verifiable evidences".
Former Indian cricket team spinner R Ashwin has been accused of ball tampering during the Tamil Nadu Premier League (TNPL). Madurai Panthers lodged an official complaint against Ashwin and his franchise, accusing them of ball tampering during their match on June 14. The TNPL organisers have now asked for evidence from Madurai Panthers in the matter. In the official complaint, the franchise said that Dindigul Dragons used chemically treated towels to make the ball heavier. They further alleged that the ball produced a metallic sound when struck by the ball because of the tampering.
Ashwin has been cleared by the TNPL organisers due to the lack of "verifiable evidences".
"The towels in question were TNCA-issued and equally available to both teams," 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.
"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)."
Earlier, Madurai Panthers COO S Mahesh wrote a detailed letter to the TNPL authorities about the incident and said that despite multiple warnings, Dindigul Dragons continued to tamper with the ball.
“A serious case of ball tampering occurred during our recent match against Dindigul Dragons. Despite repeated warnings, the Dindigul team blatantly tampered with the ball, using towels that appeared to have been treated with chemicals," Mahesh wrote in his letter.
Due to the wet outfield conditions, the Tamil Nadu Cricket Association provides towels to each franchise to dry the ball - but only in front of the on-field umpires.
Ravichandran Ashwin