Coimbatore, India – Veteran Indian cricketer R Ashwin found himself embroiled in controversy during a Tamil Nadu Premier League (TNPL) 2025 match between Dindigul Dragons and iDream Tiruppur Tamizhans on Sunday, after a heated on-field exchange with the umpire following a contentious LBW decision. Ashwin, captaining the Dindigul Dragons, expressed extreme displeasure, arguing the ball had pitched outside leg stump, a claim that replays later appeared to support.
The Controversial Dismissal
The incident occurred in the fifth over of the Dindigul Dragons’ innings. Opening the batting, Ashwin was dismissed for 18 runs by Tiruppur captain R Sai Kishore, adjudged leg before wicket. However, Ashwin was visibly upset, immediately confronting on-field umpire Kritika Venkatesan. He gestured towards the pitch, vehemently arguing that the ball had pitched outside the leg stump, which, according to the laws of cricket, should not result in an LBW dismissal.
Ashwin’s Fiery Reaction and Frustration
Despite Ashwin’s protests, the umpire stood firm on her decision. This led to a furious reaction from the 38-year-old. As he walked off the field, he was seen striking his pads forcefully with his bat in frustration and later reportedly flung his gloves into the dugout. The moment was captured on video and quickly went viral across social media platforms, sparking widespread debate among fans and cricket pundits.
Adding to Ashwin’s frustration, the Dindigul Dragons had already exhausted their two DRS reviews by the fifth over, one of them for a wide call. This left him with no option to challenge the umpire’s decision, despite his strong belief that it was incorrect.
Dindigul Dragons’ Collapse and Match Outcome
Ashwin’s dismissal for 18 runs marked the beginning of a dramatic collapse for the Dindigul Dragons. After a promising start, the team crumbled to be bowled out for a paltry 93 runs in just 16.2 overs. iDream Tiruppur Tamizhans chased down the target comfortably, winning by nine wickets with 49 balls to spare, with Tushar Raheja top-scoring with an unbeaten 65.
Reactions and Criticism
Ashwin’s outburst drew mixed reactions. While many fans expressed support for the veteran cricketer, citing the apparent umpiring error, a section of the cricketing fraternity criticized his reaction, deeming it unbecoming of a player of his experience and stature. Some social media users slammed his “tantrums like a kid” and suggested that his behavior was unacceptable.
Match officials are expected to review the incident, and it remains to be seen if any disciplinary action will be taken against Ashwin. This incident adds another chapter to Ashwin’s history of heated exchanges on the field, having previously been involved in arguments during past TNPL seasons.
