Controversy Erupts Over Ball-Tampering Allegations in Tamil Nadu Premier League

Ball-Tampering Claims Against Dindigul Dragons

In the ongoing Tamil Nadu Premier League, the Dindigul Dragons, captained by R Ashwin, are facing serious accusations of ball tampering from the Seicham Madurai Panthers. The league organizers have instructed the Panthers to provide evidence for their claims, which they describe as "post-facto and speculative."

The Panthers allege that the Dragons used towels treated with chemicals to manipulate the ball during their match in Salem on June 14.

However, it has been clarified that these towels were supplied by the state cricket association specifically for drying the ball if it became wet, and this process was overseen by the on-field umpires.

Consequently, the TNPL has requested the Panthers to present proof promptly to validate their allegations.

In an email to the Panthers, TNPL CEO Prasanna Kannan stated that the accusations seem to be speculative and lack supporting evidence, relying solely on internal team communications.

Kannan also pointed out that neither the on-field umpires nor the match referee raised any complaints during or after the match.

He emphasized that the towels in question were provided by the TNCA and were accessible to both teams, with the Playing Control Team, including umpires and the match referee, closely monitoring the ball throughout the game.

It has been reported that the Tamil Nadu Cricket Association is forming an internal committee to address the matter.

Kannan mentioned that if the franchise has credible evidence, they can formally request an Independent Commission of Inquiry by 3 pm on June 17, along with any supporting materials such as video, photographs, or testimonials.

The controversy began when Panthers CEO Mahesh S sent a letter to the TNPL alleging "blatant" ball tampering by the defending champions, the Dragons, and requested an investigation into the origin of the towels.

In the match held at the Salem Cricket Foundation Ground, the Dragons triumphed over the Panthers by nine wickets. The Panthers batted first, scoring 150 runs for 8 wickets in 20 overs, while Ashwin, despite not taking any wickets and conceding 27 runs in four overs, scored 49 runs off 29 balls as an opener, leading the Dragons to chase down the target in just 12.3 overs.