Ravichandran Ashwin Fined Heavily for Outburst Over Umpiring Call in TNPL 2025
In a dramatic turn of events at the Tamil Nadu Premier League (TNPL) 2025, seasoned Indian all-rounder and Dindigul Dragons captain Ravichandran Ashwin has been slapped with a hefty fine of 30 percent of his match fee following a heated exchange over an umpiring decision. The incident, which unfolded during a clash against IDream Tiruppur Tamizhans on June 8 in Coimbatore, has ignited a fiery debate across cricket circles and social media platforms.
The controversy erupted in the fifth over of Dindigul’s innings when Ashwin, attempting a risky sweep shot off left-arm spinner R Sai Kishore, was adjudged LBW by on-field umpire Kritika. Replays later suggested the ball had pitched outside leg stump, a detail that fueled Ashwin’s frustration. With no reviews left—both of Dindigul’s challenges had been exhausted on earlier wide-ball calls—the 38-year-old veteran couldn’t contest the decision. Visibly agitated, Ashwin pointed to the pitch, argued with the umpire, and eventually stormed off, striking his pads with his bat in protest.
The drama didn’t end on the field. Back in the dugout, Ashwin vented further by throwing his gloves, an act deemed as misuse of equipment under TNPL regulations. Post-match, a disciplinary hearing resulted in a split penalty: 10 percent of the fine for dissent towards the umpire and 20 percent for equipment misuse. ‘Ashwin has accepted the sanctions,’ a TNPL official confirmed to Cricbuzz, closing the procedural chapter but not the public discourse.
The incident quickly went viral online, with fans dissecting every frame of the dismissal. Many rallied behind Ashwin, arguing that the replays vindicated his stance, while others criticized his conduct as unbecoming of a player of his stature. ‘Even legends lose their cool, but umpires aren’t robots. Tough call, tougher reaction,’ tweeted a prominent cricket analyst, summing up the polarized opinions.
On the field, Ashwin’s dismissal for a brisk 18 off 11 balls proved costly for Dindigul. At 39/1 when he departed, the Dragons crumbled to a paltry 93 all out in 16.2 overs, unable to withstand Tiruppur’s bowling attack led by Esakkimuthu, who claimed an impressive 4/26. In response, Tiruppur Tamizhans chased down the target with ease, securing a commanding nine-wicket victory with 49 balls to spare. Opener Tushar Raheja played a match-defining knock of 65 not out off 39 balls, ensuring a smooth sail for his side.
This incident adds another layer to Ashwin’s storied career, known for his tactical brilliance and fiery competitiveness. With over 500 wickets in Test cricket and a reputation as a thinking cricketer, his emotional outburst serves as a reminder of the intense pressures even veterans face in domestic leagues like the TNPL. For Dindigul Dragons, who now languish in fifth place with one win and one loss in the tournament standings, the road ahead in the ninth edition of TNPL—running until July 6—looks challenging.
As the dust settles, the cricket fraternity is left pondering: Was Ashwin wronged by technology’s absence, or did he cross a line with his reaction? One thing is certain—this viral moment will keep fueling discussions long after the match ends, highlighting the delicate balance between passion and protocol in the gentleman’s game.