Shakib Al Hasan reported for suspect bowling action during Surrey County Championship

Shakib Al Hasan (Twitter)

Bangladesh’s premier all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan has been reported for a suspect bowling action during his brief appearance for Surrey in the County Championship. The 37-year-old faces his first-ever bowling action inspection in his two-decade-long career.

During Surrey’s Championship match against Somerset at Taunton in September, where Shakib delivered an impressive performance claiming nine wickets. Despite bowling over 63 overs in the fixture, the left-arm spinner was not no-balled during the game. However, on-field umpires Steve O’Shaughnessy and David Millns later deemed his action suspicious, prompting an ECB investigation.

Shakib had joined Surrey on a short-term deal to strengthen their spinning options, as the team was missing eight players due to England duty, including frontline spinners Will Jacks and Dan Lawrence. Despite his contribution, Surrey couldn’t prevent Somerset from securing a convincing 111-run victory.

Also Read: Shakib Al Hasan is unlikely to play ODI series against Afghanistan: BCB president Faruque Ahmed

The matter is under ECB jurisdiction and not related to ICC or other boards: BCB official

While the Bangladesh all-rounder isn’t currently suspended from playing, he is required to undergo further analysis of his bowling action at an approved location. Sources indicate that negotiations are underway to schedule these tests within the next couple of weeks.

“The matter (Shakib’s suspect bowling action) has no connection to international cricket or domestic cricket in other countries. The matter is under ECB jurisdiction and not related to ICC or other boards,” a BCB official said on Monday.

The Jessore-born recently withdrew from Bangladesh’s Test squad against South Africa at Mirpur, citing security concerns. This decision was made after his involvement in politics as an MP for the Awami League-led government, which was displaced following student protests in July.

Furthermore, Shakib was absent from Bangladesh’s recent three-match ODI series against Afghanistan. Following his decision not to return home for what would have been his farewell Test against South Africa, he expressed the need for additional recovery time.