Stunner in TNPL: R Ashwin’s Dropped Catch Costs Dindigul Dragons in Thrilling 8-Run Loss to Chepauk Super Gillies
In a heart-stopping encounter in the Tamil Nadu Premier League (TNPL) 2023 on Monday, Dindigul Dragons skipper R Ashwin found himself at the center of a dramatic moment that ultimately contributed to his team’s agonizing 8-run defeat against Chepauk Super Gillies. A dropped catch, a sensational bowling performance, and a nail-biting finish— this match had it all at the Salem Cricket Foundation Stadium.
The turning point came on the last ball of the 19th over when Chepauk’s N Sunil Krishna miscued a big shot off pacer Sandeep Warrier. The ball soared straight toward Ashwin at long-off. It was a regulation catch for a player of his stature, but in a rare lapse, the Indian spin maestro spilled it, leaving himself and Warrier in utter disbelief. That miss allowed Chepauk to post a challenging total of 158/6, setting the stage for a tense chase.
Dindigul Dragons’ pursuit of the target was spirited but faltered under pressure. Reflecting on the loss, Ashwin attributed the defeat to a lack of experience among his batters. “We should have won it comfortably, but inexperience cost us. Finishing a game is a different skill altogether. Credit to Chepauk—they bowled brilliantly and held their nerves,” Ashwin said in a candid post-match interview. With this result, the Dragons sit fifth on the points table with 2 wins and 2 losses in four matches, while Chepauk Super Gillies strengthen their position at the top.
The real game-changer, however, was Chepauk’s TD Lokesh Raj, who turned the match on its head with a breathtaking five-wicket haul in just two overs during the death. Introduced late in the game, Lokesh’s composure under pressure dismantled the Dragons’ lower order, earning him the Player of the Match award. Chepauk captain Baba Aparajith couldn’t stop praising his bowler, saying, “It’s tough to come in and bowl from the 18th over. Hats off to Lokesh for that incredible spell. His talent shines in clutch moments like these.”
Lokesh himself revealed the secret behind his success, crediting Aparajith’s trust and a simple plan. “Apar anna asked me to stick to wide yorkers. It just clicked in the heat of the moment. Having 6-7 bowlers in our side is a huge advantage,” he said with a smile. For Aparajith, this victory was personal. “I’ve been on the losing side of such games far too often. It feels great to be on the winning end this time,” he added.
This match epitomized the unpredictability of T20 cricket and the fine margins that separate victory from defeat. For R Ashwin and the Dindigul Dragons, it’s a bitter pill to swallow, but as Ashwin put it, “This isn’t a failure; it’s a learning experience.” Meanwhile, Chepauk Super Gillies continue to assert their dominance in TNPL 2023, proving why they are genuine title contenders. Can Ashwin’s men bounce back, or will Chepauk’s momentum carry them all the way? Only time will tell.