Smith Expresses Confidence in Kuhnemann’s Action Report
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Synopsis
Steve Smith, the Australian batter, shared his surprise over Matthew Kuhnemann's reported suspect bowling action during the Sri Lanka Test series. He confidently backed his teammate, expressing optimism that Kuhnemann will clear all tests to validate his bowling technique.
Key Takeaways
- Steve Smith surprised by Kuhnemann's report.
- Support for Kuhnemann’s bowling action assessment.
- Testing scheduled within 10 days.
- Allowed to play domestic matches during testing.
- Must clear action for West Indies series.
New Delhi, Feb 15 (NationPress) Australia batter Steve Smith expressed his surprise upon learning that spinner Matthew Kuhnemann had been reported for suspect bowling action during the Test series against Sri Lanka. The acting captain expressed strong support for his teammate, affirming his belief that Kuhnemann would successfully pass all assessments to demonstrate the legality of his bowling technique and emerge unscathed.
"This news has caught me off guard. He has been active in professional cricket for eight years and has never faced any issues until now," Smith commented.
"I am keeping him in my thoughts. Currently, he must navigate this process. We are optimistic that he will succeed. He will undertake the necessary evaluations back home. We wish him the very best," he added.
Kuhnemann is scheduled to undergo biomechanical testing on his bowling action within the next ten days, following concerns raised by match officials during the second Test against Sri Lanka.
Throughout his eight-year professional career, including his ODI debut for Australia in Sri Lanka in 2022 and his Test debut, along with the three Tests played during the 2023 tour of India, Kuhnemann has never had his action reported.
While he undergoes testing, Kuhnemann is still allowed to participate in Sheffield Shield or Dean Jones Trophy matches (Australia's domestic 50-over contests), but he is prohibited from taking part in international games during this time. He missed Tasmania's 50-over match against Victoria on Thursday.
If Kuhnemann's action is deemed illegal, he must quickly rectify the situation to be eligible for Australia’s three-Test series against the West Indies in June and July. Touring teams usually opt for an additional spinner on Caribbean tours, often deploying two spinners on drier pitches.
Australia will also be keen to have Kuhnemann fully prepared for the 2027 tour of India.
