The Tamil Nadu Premier League (TNPL) 2025 witnessed a dramatic finish on June 22nd, in a match between the Dindigul Dragons and the Salem Spartans. The Dindigul Dragons, captained by Ravichandran Ashwin, secured a thrilling two-wicket victory, thanks to a stunning final-over performance by Varun Chakaravarthy.

Chasing a target of 189, the Dindigul Dragons needed 11 runs from the final over. The tension was palpable as Karthik Saran was dismissed after the first ball. With 11 runs still required from four balls, DT Chandrasekar managed to take a single, putting Varun Chakaravarthy on strike. What followed was pure drama. The bowler, M Poiyamozhi, bowled a no-ball, giving Chakaravarthy a free hit with 8 runs needed from the last two balls. Chakaravarthy seized the opportunity, smashing the free hit over long-on for a six. With just two runs needed from the final ball, he held his nerve and drove it past the infield for a boundary, sealing a memorable victory for the Dragons.

The victory sparked wild celebrations among the Dindigul Dragons' players, but it was the reaction of their captain, Ravichandran Ashwin, that caught everyone's attention. A video has gone viral showing Ashwin sitting in the dugout, visibly emotional with teary eyes. The veteran cricketer appeared stunned and overwhelmed by Chakaravarthy's heroics.

Later, Ashwin was seen giving Chakaravarthy a tight hug, a moment that truly encapsulated the emotions of the game. Ashwin himself had contributed significantly to the chase, providing a flying start with a quickfire 35 off just 14 balls. His innings included five boundaries and two sixes, setting the tone for the Dragons' chase. Besides Ashwin, Shivam Singh (34), Hunny Saini (35) and Vimal Khumar also contributed to the chase.

Varun Chakaravarthy's heroics were particularly significant given his recent return to the Indian fold. He has lived up to expectations with both ball and bat.

The Dindigul Dragons are currently third in the TNPL 2025 standings with six points from five matches. The Chepauk Super Gillies have already qualified for the playoffs. The Dindigul Dragons have two more matches to play in the league stage, against the Nellai Royal Kings on June 26th and the Trichy Grand Cholas on June 29th.

The TNPL 2025 final is scheduled for July 6th at the NPR College Ground in Dindigul.