Matthew Kuhnemann Reported for Suspect Bowling Action
Australian left-arm spinner Matthew Kuhnemann has found himself under scrutiny following the recently concluded Test series against Sri Lanka. The spin bowler took Galle by storm with his magnificent performance in the second test against Sri Lanka. The spin maestro finished as Australia’s leading wicket-taker with 16 wickets at an impressive average of 17.18. However, the Australian was reported for a suspect bowling action by match officials.
Matthew Kuhnemann Bowling Action Reported as Suspect
Cricket Australia (CA) has acknowledged the report and stated that they will work closely with the International Cricket Council (ICC) and independent analysts to assess Kuhnemann’s action. The organisation has revealed that they will use state-of-the-art technology as well as video evidence of Kuhnemann’s bowling in the Test to check whether his action is illegal. If any discrepancy is found then the 28-year-old will be suspended from bowling until his action has been modified and a subsequent assessment is passed.
In a statement, CA said, “This is the first time in those eight years of professional cricket that his action has been questioned. Cricket Australia will liaise closely with the ICC and independent experts in line with ICC regulations. No further comment will be made by Cricket Australia or Matthew until the matter is resolved.”
What Makes Bowling Action Illegal?
According to Law 21 of the MCC Laws of Cricket, a bowling action is deemed illegal when a bowler’s elbow extends more than 15 degrees while delivering the ball. An illegal bowling action which is often called “throwing” or “chucking” can interfere with the fairness of the game. The degree limit was set by the ICC to maintain fairness and prevent any unfair advantage. If match officials suspect a bowler of exceeding this limit, they can report the action for further assessment.
Since Kuhnemann has been reported, he must undergo biomechanical testing within 14 days to determine whether his bowling action complies with ICC rules. A member of ICC’s panel of human movement specialists will lead the assessment at the National Cricket Centre in Brisbane. However, if the tests confirm his action is illegal, he will be immediately suspended from bowling in international cricket until he corrects his technique and passes a reassessment.
The next few weeks will be crucial for Kuhnemann as he undergoes evaluation. Cricket Australia has pledged to work with ICC experts to ensure the process is thorough and fair. Although he remains eligible for selection in domestic cricket, his international future hangs in balance until the assessment report comes out.