Kuhnemann undergoes ICC testing, awaits verdict on bowling action
What's the story
Australian spinner Matthew Kuhnemann was recently subjected to a detailed examination of his bowling action in Brisbane.
The scrutiny came after a report following Australia's victorious Test series against Sri Lanka, where the team won 2-0.
As per the ICC rules, a bowler is permitted a maximum of 15 degrees of flex in their bowling arm.
The 28-year-old spinner was tested for over an hour, mimicking the speed and spin he produced in Galle.
Expert observation
ICC experts closely monitor Kuhnemann's bowling technique
The International Cricket Council (ICC) specialists paid close attention to Kuhnemann's bowling action.
The left-arm spinner was marked and surrounded by high-speed cameras and a 3D motion analysis system for precise assessment.
The results of these tests are likely to be analyzed in the next week before the ICC takes a final call on the spinner's bowling action.
Test results
Potential outcomes of Kuhnemann's bowling action assessment
If Kuhnemann is found to have extended his elbow beyond 15 degrees on his standard delivery, he will face a temporary ban from bowling until he can rectify the same.
However, if cleared, he will be allowed to continue representing Tasmania in the Sheffield Shield and be considered for Australia's tour of West Indies in June.
Despite the ongoing evaluation process, Kuhnemann remains optimistic about being cleared by the ICC.
Solidarity
Kuhnemann's performance and support from fellow players
Despite suffering a thumb injury on his non-bowling hand, Kuhnemann was able to clear the ICC testing.
He had played through this pain earlier to emerge as the leading wicket-taker of the Warne-Muralidaran Trophy, with 16 wickets at an average of 17.18 in two Tests against Sri Lanka.
His teammates have rallied behind him, with stand-in captain Steve Smith saying, "We're confident he will pass."
Tasmania captain Jordan Silk also lent his support to Kuhnemann during this tough time.
Scrutiny
Australian spinner Matthew Kuhnemann's bowling action under ICC scrutiny
As mentioned, Kuhnemann was reported for a suspect bowling action following 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 now faces mandatory testing within three weeks.
Since his debut in 2017, he has featured in 124 professional matches, (five Tests and four ODIs).
This is the first instance of Kuhnemann's bowling action being questioned in his eight-year professional career.
Stats
Kuhnemann's impressive Test and FC numbers
Kuhnemann is being tipped as Nathan Lyon's successor after the latter's expected retirement post the 2027 Ashes tour.
The former currently 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 FC innings, he has bagged 90 wickets (AVG: 31. 65).