Kuhnemann cleared by ICC, eyes return to cricket post injury
What's the story
Australian left-arm spinner Matthew Kuhnemann was recently cleared by the International Cricket Council (ICC) after an investigation into his bowling action.
Notably, this is the first time his action has come under the scanner.
Although he could have played domestic cricket during the testing phase, he skipped the last round of Sheffield Shield due to a thumb injury during the Sri Lanka series.
Here's more.
Bowling style
Kuhnemann's unique bowling action creates optical illusion
Kuhnemann's unique bowling action has been a subject of debate among cricket fans.
During the spinner's Test debut against India in 2023, former Indian spinner R Ashwin noted on his YouTube channel that Kuhnemann's wrist action can create an optical illusion regarding the same.
"For Kuhnemann, his wrist breaks during his loading. So sometimes it will look like there is an elbow extension," Ashwin explained.
Anticipated comeback
Kuhnemann's return to cricket post-injury
Kuhnemann is now concentrating on his recovery and return to the field. He intends to rejoin Tasmania for the remainder of the season once his thumb has fully healed.
"I'm looking forward to finishing the season with Tasmania once my thumb has fully healed," he said in a statement issued through Cricket Australia
His unique bowling action and recent ICC clearance make him a potential candidate for Australia's upcoming Test series against West Indies in June-July.
Official statement
Cricket Australia expresses relief over Kuhnemann's clearance
Ben Oliver, Cricket Australia's Executive General Manager of National Teams, was relieved that Kuhnemann's case was finally resolved.
"We are pleased for Matt that this matter is now resolved," he said.
"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," Oliver further stated in support of Khunemann.
Bowling action
Kuhnemann's bowling action under ICC scrutiny
The spinner's bowling action came under the ICC's scrutiny after the 2nd Test against Sri Lanka in Galle.
Despite his brilliant performance of taking 16 wickets in two matches and helping Australia clinch the series 2-0, Kuhnemann had to undergo mandatory testing within three weeks.
Additionally, his international career was under suspension until he was cleared by the cricketing body on February 26.
Confidence
Spinner 'never doubted' his bowling action
The spinner thanked his family, friends, and Cricket Australia for their support stating, "I am very grateful for all the support I have received from my family, friends and team-mates, and to Cricket Australia."
"I've never doubted my bowling action throughout my career and I'm looking to improve the art of spin bowling," Khunemann said speaking about his bowling action coming under scrutiny.
He also appreciated the ICC testing process by stating, "I thought the process itself was quite fair."
Stats
A look at his stats
Kuhnemann, a left-arm spinner, was ruthless throughout the Lankan series, taking 16 wickets in two Tests at 17.19.
He was being tipped as Nathan Lyon's successor in the format. Additionally, he owns 25 scalps across five Tests (nine innings), at an average of 22.20.
His best bowling innings read 5/16, and his best match figures are worth 9/149, (two five-wicket hauls).
In 50 First-Class innings, he has bagged 90 wickets at an average of 31.65.