The BCCI’s Anti-Corruption and Security Unit (ACSU) has fined a Tamil Nadu all-rounder Rs 1 lakh after discovering an undeclared mobile phone in his possession within the Player and Match Officials Area during the ongoing Tamil Nadu Premier League (TNPL) 2026. The player, who debuted in Ranji Trophy last season, has also been suspended for the rest of the tournament.
The incident came to light on August 10 at the NPR College ground in Natham, Dindigul. ACSU officials termed it a serious breach of the players’ code of conduct. After the phone was found, the player was questioned but offered no explanation. The unit issued a formal notice requesting a written response, which it deemed inadequate, leading to the confirmation of a Rs 1 lakh fine for a first‑time anti‑corruption violation.
What action did the TNCA take after receiving the ACSU’s findings?
Importantly, forensic analysis of the seized handset showed no evidence of communication with bookmakers. Nevertheless, merely possessing an undeclared device in a restricted zone was regarded as a serious procedural breach.
The player was promptly removed from his franchise as soon as the issue surfaced, and every other TNPL franchise was notified of his withdrawal.
“We have received a letter (from the ACSU) about this incident,” the source was quoted as saying by The Indian Express.
Rao also confirmed the directive issued to franchise owners:
“We have instructed the team owners not to consider him for selection until the enquiry is over. We are currently investigating the matter and will take appropriate action,” the source added.
This instruction effectively bars the player from selection with any TNPL franchise for the duration of the investigation.
What is the current procedural status of the case?
The ACSU has formally conveyed its findings and the Rs 1 lakh fine recommendation to the TNCA. The association’s own inquiry, in which the player appeared on August 14, constitutes the next confirmed step. The TNCA has stated it will announce its decision once the investigation concludes.
“The player was confronted first but he could not explain the violation. He was served notice and asked to reply, which he did. His reply too was found unsatisfactory and thus a fine of Rs 1 lakh was imposed on him” the source concluded.
TNPL 2026 marks the tournament’s tenth edition, running from August 4 to August 28, 2026. The league stage in Dindigul was set to wrap up on August 15 before the competition shifts to Chennai. With the player barred from selection for the remainder of the event, he will miss all remaining TNPL 2026 fixtures irrespective of the inquiry’s outcome.
