Bangladesh's veteran spin all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan has been reported for suspect bowling action. Shakib who has been bowling in international cricket for 17 years was booked during his one-off appearance for Surrey against Somerset in the ongoing County Championship.
Shakib bowled a total of 63.2 overs in the match and bagged nine wickets at the Cooper Associates County Ground, Taunton where the clash took place in September. The on-field umpires did not signal a single no ball during the game.
It is to be noted that none of the Somerset batters had any issues with the left-arm spinner's bowling action. The on-field umpires reported his action.
No help from BCB
Meanwhile, Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) will not intervene in the matter as it does not come under their jurisdisction but England Cricket Board's (ECB).
"In the county match, an on-field umpire reported that he felt the action was suspect. If Shakib wants to further play domestic cricket in England, he will have to appear in a test," The Daily Star quoted a BCB official.
"If he is cleared, he will be able to play domestic cricket in England. The matter 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," the official added.
Shakib's 9 wickets in vain
Despite Shakib taking nine wickets, Surrey lost to Somerset in a dramatic encounter where Tom Banton batted at no.11 despite injury. However, the former Bangladesh captain failed with the bat registering scores of 12 and 5. Chasing a target of 221, Surrey were bowled out for 109.
Question mark over Shakib's international career
Shakib's last appearance on the international stage was against India in the two-match Test series that ended last month. He announced that he will retire from the red-ball format at home in the Test series against South Africa but was not allowed to due to security reasons. He has not been picked for the three-ODI series against Bangladesh in UAE starting November 6.
