TNPL 2024: Ravichandran Ashwin's Stellar Knock Takes Dindigul Dragons To Final

Ravichandran Ashwin's exceptional batting has propelled Dindigul Dragons into the final of the Tamil Nadu Premier League 2024.

The Dragons secured a spot in the final after defeating Tiruppur Tamizhans by nine wickets in Qualifier 2. They will now face Lyca Kovai Kings on August 4.

In the second qualifier at Chennai's MA Chidambaram Stadium, Ashwin and Vimal Khumar formed a strong opening partnership. They added 81 runs in just 8.2 overs before Khumar was dismissed for a run-a-ball 28 by P Bhuvaneswaran. Ashwin continued his aggressive play, reaching his half-century in just 25 balls.

Ashwin's performance wasn't limited to batting. Earlier, he took the wicket of IDream Tiruppur Tamizhans opener Tushar Raheja, ending with figures of 1-27 from four overs. His all-round display was key in restricting the Tamizhans to just 108 runs in 19.4 overs.

In the TNPL 4 qualifier, Ashwin led from the front with an unbeaten 69 off just 30 balls, hitting 11 boundaries and three sixes. His half-century came within the first nine overs.

This explosive innings ensured that the Dragons chased down the Tamizhans' modest total of 108 with ease. They achieved this with nine wickets in hand and more than nine overs remaining, securing their place in the finals against Lyca Kovai Kings on August 4.

Ashwin had already shown his form earlier in the playoffs by scoring another half-century against Chepauk Super Gillies in the Eliminator. In that match, he scored 57 runs off 35 balls, setting up a strong foundation for his team.

Interestingly, Ashwin has scored 200 runs this season with an average of 33.33. The veteran India all-rounder also has nine wickets to his name. This is a historical season for him as he never scored 200 runs in a TNPL season before.