Shakib Al Hasan's Bowling Action Under Review by ECB After County Match Concerns
Shakib was not penalized during the game, the umpires felt his action warranted further examination, leading to the ECB’s decision to initiate a formal review.
Bangladesh’s seasoned all-rounder, Shakib Al Hasan, is facing scrutiny from the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) after umpires flagged concerns about his bowling action during his recent County Championship match for Surrey. The ECB has called for an official review following reports from umpires Steve O'Shaughnessy and David Millns, who noted issues with Shakib’s action during a critical match against Somerset in September.
Shakib had joined Surrey on a short-term contract to fill in for missing players, stepping up as a key spinner amidst the team’s race for a third consecutive Championship title. Despite his nine-wicket performance, Somerset clinched the match, dealing Surrey a setback. Although Shakib was not penalized during the game, the umpires felt his action warranted further examination, leading to the ECB’s decision to initiate a formal review.
For Shakib, this incident marks the first instance of his bowling action being questioned in his two-decade-long career, during which he’s claimed 712 wickets across formats. The ECB is coordinating arrangements for him to undergo testing at an approved facility, which is expected to happen in the coming weeks. For now, Shakib remains eligible to play while awaiting the assessment outcome.
This inquiry adds to a series of challenges for Shakib, whose international future has been uncertain following his recent withdrawal from Bangladesh’s Test squad against South Africa, citing security concerns. His decision stirred controversy in Bangladesh, particularly given his political ties with the Awami League-led government, which lost power in a historic, youth-driven protest. As Shakib awaits the results of his bowling review, the cricket world watches closely, with this potentially impacting his extensive career.
