Did Shakib Al Hasan Intentionally Bowl with an Illegal Action for Surrey?
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Synopsis
Shakib Al Hasan opens up about his controversial bowling action while playing for Surrey in 2024. Discover the circumstances of his suspension and how he managed to return to form after facing challenges with his bowling. This insightful revelation from the star all-rounder sheds light on the pressures and expectations of international cricket.
Key Takeaways
- Shakib Al Hasan faced suspension for an illegal bowling action.
- He intentionally bowled illegally due to fatigue from extensive overs.
- After training, he successfully returned to bowling.
- The BCB clarified his eligibility as a batsman despite the suspension.
- His experiences highlight the pressures athletes endure in professional sports.
New Delhi, Dec 7 (NationPress) Bangladesh's all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan has disclosed that he was bowling with an illegal bowling action "intentionally" during his time with Surrey in 2024. This led to him being reported for a suspect action and ultimately facing suspension.
His bowling was classified as illegal following an independent assessment at Loughborough University in December of the previous year, resulting in a ban from participating in all ECB-organized matches. His suspension in international cricket was automatically mandated by ICC regulations.
Shakib shared on the Beard Before Wicket podcast, "I think I was doing it a little bit intentionally because I bowled more than 70 overs [in one match]. I have never bowled 70 overs in my career during a Test match. I was fatigued after playing a four-day match for Surrey against Somerset in Taunton.
"I had just completed back-to-back Test matches in Pakistan, and after winning that series, I transitioned to those four-day matches. My only thought was that the umpire could have at least given me a warning first. However, it is within their rights according to the rules, and I didn’t argue.
In Shakib's sole match for Surrey last season, he bowled a total of 63.2 overs, split into two innings of 33.5 and 29.3 overs. After undergoing a third bowling assessment at Loughborough University earlier this year, he was cleared to bowl again.
"I went for the test, failed, and upon reviewing my results, I thought, 'okay, this is happening'. I had to train for a couple of weeks, returned to Surrey, and they generously assisted me. After two sessions, I was back to normal and thought, 'this is quite simple'.
Despite the BCB selectors not including him for the Champions Trophy following a second unsuccessful bowling test in Chennai, the board clarified that he was eligible to play as a batsman in all domestic and international matches.
Point of View
It is vital to approach the story of Shakib Al Hasan with an unbiased lens. His revelations highlight the challenges faced by athletes under immense pressure. While his actions may have led to controversy, they also reflect the pursuit of excellence in a demanding sport. We stand behind the integrity of the game while acknowledging the human elements involved.
NationPress
09/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What led to Shakib Al Hasan's suspension?
Shakib Al Hasan was suspended due to bowling with an illegal action that was reported during his time with Surrey in 2024.
How did Shakib feel about his bowling action?
Shakib admitted to bowling with an illegal action intentionally as he was fatigued from bowling over 70 overs in a match.
What was the outcome of his bowling assessment?
After failing an initial bowling test, Shakib trained and was later cleared to bowl again after a successful follow-up assessment.
Was Shakib Al Hasan selected for the Champions Trophy?
No, he was not selected due to failing a second bowling test, although he could play as a batsman.
What support did Shakib receive from Surrey?
Surrey provided Shakib with assistance to help him train and return to his normal bowling form after his suspension.
