Australia’s left-arm spinner Matthew Kuhnemann has been reported for a suspect bowling action following the second Test against Sri Lanka in Galle last week. As a result, the Brisbane-born cricketer will now have to undergo testing to assess the legality of his action.
The 28-year-old was instrumental in Australia’s historic 2-0 series victory in Sri Lanka, emerging as the highest wicket-taker. He claimed 16 wickets across four innings at an impressive average of 17.18, including a five-wicket haul. Notably, Kuhnemann had dislocated his thumb before the series but made a swift recovery after surgery.
Cricket Australia issued an official statement on Wednesday, February 12, stating:
“The Australian team was notified of the match officials’ referral following the second Test against Sri Lanka in Galle and will support Matt through the process of clearing this matter.”
“Matt has played 124 professional matches since his debut in 2017, including five Test matches and four one-day internationals. He has played 55 Big Bash League games since 2018. This is the first time in those eight years of professional cricket that his action been questioned.”
Kuhnemann is set to undergo testing at the National Cricket Centre in Brisbane in the coming weeks. Although he is permitted to bowl in domestic cricket, he will be ineligible for international matches until he successfully clears the assessment.
“He deserves all the praise” – Nathan Lyon on Matthew Kuhnemann
In the second Test against Sri Lanka, veteran spinner Nathan Lyon commended Matthew Kuhnemann for his bravery, highlighting how he competed against the hosts despite his thumb injury. Speaking to ‘The Sydney Morning Herald’, Lyon stated:
“Kuhny has been exceptional, and he deserves all the praise that he gets. The way he broke his thumb three weeks ago and to show the courage to come out here and bowl, I know it’s hurting him, but he’s there, he’s shown a lot of courage and he’s bowling exceptionally well. He’s bowling his best ball over and over and challenging guys’ defence, and that’s all we can ask.”
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