Tamil Nadu Cricketer Fined ₹1 Lakh, removed from Squad after Mobile Use during TNPL Match

A Tamil Nadu cricketer has reportedly been fined ₹1 lakh by the BCCI's Anti-Corruption and Security Unit (ACSU) for allegedly breaching anti-corruption protocols during the ongoing Tamil Nadu Premier League (TNPL) 2026.

According to reports, the left-handed all-rounder was found using an undeclared mobile phone inside the Players and Match Officials Area (PMOA) during a match on August 10 at the NPR College Ground in Natham, Dindigul.

The mobile phone was reportedly examined by the ACSU. Crucially, no evidence of communication with bookmakers or any corruption-related activity was found on the device. The reported offence instead concerns the use of an undeclared communication device inside a restricted area, which is prohibited under anti-corruption regulations.

TNPL player Withdrawn subsequently

The player was subsequently withdrawn from his franchise and has reportedly not featured in matches since the incident. The Tamil Nadu Cricket Association (TNCA) is understood to have initiated an enquiry, while other TNPL franchises have reportedly been informed about the matter.

Reports suggest that the association initially considered a more severe punishment, including a lengthy suspension, before deciding that the alleged breach did not warrant such action. The ₹1 lakh penalty was reportedly recommended as a first-offence punishment.

Importantly, there is currently no publicly available official BCCI, ACSU or TNCA statement confirming that the player has been charged with corruption or match-fixing. The matter is understood to relate specifically to an alleged breach of communication-device protocols.

The player made his Ranji Trophy debut for Tamil Nadu during the 2025-26 season and scored two half-centuries during his maiden first-class campaign. He has also been a regular performer in the TNPL and has established himself as one of Tamil Nadu's promising domestic players.