ICC Approves Bowling Action of Australian Spinner Matt Kuhnemann

Synopsis
The ICC has declared Australian spinner Matthew Kuhnemann's bowling action legal, permitting him to bowl internationally. This resolution follows an assessment that confirmed his elbow extension is within the acceptable limit. Cricket Australia has expressed support, and Kuhnemann is expected to return to competitive cricket soon.
Key Takeaways
- ICC approves Kuhnemann's bowling action.
- Assessment confirmed elbow extension is legal.
- Cricket Australia supports Kuhnemann.
- Kuhnemann was top wicket-taker against Sri Lanka.
- Next match could be on March 6.
Dubai, Feb 26 (NationPress) The International Cricket Council (ICC) has officially stated that the bowling action of Australian left-arm spinner Matthew Kuhnemann is within the legal limits, permitting him to continue his international bowling career. “The International Cricket Council (ICC) today confirmed that the bowling action of Australian spinner Matthew Kuhnemann has been determined to be legal, allowing the player to proceed with bowling in international cricket,” said the ICC in a statement.
Kuhnemann was flagged for a potential illegal bowling action during the second Test against Sri Lanka in Galle on February 9, which led to an independent assessment of his bowling at the National Cricket Centre in Brisbane on February 15.
The findings from the assessment indicated that his elbow extension was within the allowable 15-degree limit specified in the ICC’s regulations concerning illegal bowling actions.
With this issue now resolved, Cricket Australia (CA) has shown their support for the 28-year-old bowler. “We are delighted for Matt that this situation is now settled,” stated Ben Oliver, CA's Executive General Manager of National Teams. “This has been a tough time for Matt, but he has handled it exceptionally well. He has received full backing from Australian cricket, and he can now confidently advance to the next stage of his international career.”
Kuhnemann had been a key player in Australia’s recent 2-0 Test series victory against Sri Lanka, emerging as the top wicket-taker with 16 wickets at an average of 17.18. His remarkable performance has positioned him favorably for upcoming Test tours, including Australia’s next series in the Caribbean.
According to ICC guidelines, a bowler is considered to have an illegal action if their elbow extends beyond 15 degrees between the point when the arm is parallel to the ground and the release of the ball. Movements such as flexing, cocking, or twisting of the wrist are permissible.
Now that his action has been validated, Kuhnemann is anticipated to return to competitive play shortly, with his next match possibly occurring on March 6 when Tasmania faces Queensland in the Sheffield Shield.