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Chennai: The murky ball tampering charges has surfaced in the ongoing Tamil Nadu Permier League (TNPL) with one of the franchisees Siechem Madurai Panthers (SMP) levelling the allegations against former Indian cricketer R.Ashwin led Dindigul Dragons in the match held at Salem on June 14.

However, TNPL CEO Prasanna Kannan has denied the charges on Monday evening, stating the claims appear speculative and post-facto in nature.

The SMP in its complaint has alleged that Ashwin has used towel laced with some chemicals to clean the ball and player misconduct during the match, which Dindigul Dragons had won by nine wickets with 45 balls to spare.

The TNPL is being conducted by the Tamil Nadu Cricket Association (TNCA).

Respoding to SMP protest, the TNCA said it has reviewed the protest submitted by Siechem Madurai Panthers regarding the TNPL 2025 match against Dindigul Dragons held on 14th June in Salem.

The protest, received on 15th June at 10:51 PM, raises allegations of ball tampering and player misconduct.After a detailed review, TNCA in a statement said there was no Evidence of ball Tampering.

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.

On the option for Independent Enquiry, TNCA said "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)."

Highlighting about the misuse of protest process, TNCA cautioned that baseless or defamatory allegations could lead to disciplinary action under the TNCA Code of Conduct and Operational Rules.

It said TNCA remains committed to upholding the integrity of the league and calls on all stakeholders to maintain professionalism and the spirit of the game, the statement issued by Prasanna Kannan, CEO – TNPL, said.

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