February 26, 2025: The International Cricket Council (ICC) has confirmed that Australia’s left-arm spinner, Matthew Kuhnemann, has passed an assessment of his bowling action, affirming that his action is legal and he will continue to bowl in international cricket.
Kuhnemann was reported for a suspected illegal bowling action during the second Test against Sri Lanka in Galle, which concluded on February 9. Following the report, the Australian spinner underwent an independent assessment at the National Cricket Centre in Brisbane on February 15.
The ICC’s assessment revealed that Kuhnemann’s elbow extension for all his deliveries was within the 15-degree tolerance level permitted under the ICC Illegal Bowling Regulations, thus validating his bowling action as legal.
Kuhnemann underwent an extensive testing session, lasting over an hour, where he bowled at similar speeds and revolutions as he did during the second Test. High-speed cameras and a 3D motion analysis system were used to capture his action. The assessment was conducted by ICC experts who monitored the spin-bowler’s action closely.
Ben Oliver, Cricket Australia’s executive general manager of national teams, expressed relief after the matter was resolved, stating, “We are pleased for Matt that this matter is now resolved. It has been a challenging period for Matt; however, he has carried himself exceptionally well. He has had the full support of Australian cricket, and he can now move forward to the next phase of his international career with great confidence.”
Steve Smith, Australia’s stand-in captain during the series, also showed support for Kuhnemann, stating that the news of his bowling action being reported was a surprise. Smith mentioned, “It’s come as a bit of a surprise to me. He has been playing for eight years in professional cricket, and nothing has been said in that amount of time. We’re confident he will pass. He will go through that process back home. We wish him all the best.”
Kuhnemann, 28, has represented Australia in five Tests, claiming 25 wickets at an impressive average of 22.20 and a strike rate of 41.0. With the clearance on his bowling action, Kuhnemann can now focus on progressing with his international career without any further concerns.