Shakib Al Hasan's Bowling Action Banned in England's County Cricket

Shakib Al Hasan's Bowling Action Banned in England's County Cricket

Shakib Al Hasan, who played in the County Championship for the first time since the 2010-11 season, has faced a rare stain on his long and illustrious career. The Bangladeshi star, who claimed nine wickets in just one match, has been accused of having a flawed bowling action by umpires. Three months later, on Friday, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has banned Shakib from bowling in all its competitions.

Indian sports website ESPNcricinfo reported the news, stating that after questions were raised about his bowling action, Shakib underwent an independent test at England's Loughborough University earlier this month. The test found his action to be illegal. As a result, Shakib's ban from ECB competitions will take effect from December 10.

In September, Shakib played a Test match for Surrey in the County Championship, where he troubled batters immensely and took nine wickets across two innings. However, after the match, umpires raised concerns about his bowling action, stating that he must clear a bowling action test to continue playing in England's domestic cricket.

During the test at Loughborough University, it was determined that Shakib’s elbow exceeded the permitted 15-degree bend, leading to the new ban. To lift this ban, the former world’s best all-rounder will need to undergo a re-assessment.

Having started his international career in 2006, Shakib has played 447 international matches so far, claiming 712 wickets.