Zimbabwe's Brian Vitori suspended for illegal action
In a massive blow to Zimbabwe's World Cup qualification hopes, left-arm pacer Brian Vitori has been suspended for illegal bowling action for the third time in two years. The 28-year-old, who has played 24 ODIs for his country, will remain suspended from bowling until he undergoes an assessment of his bowling action. Here's more!
Vitori pulled up third time for bowling action
Brian Vitori, who made a return to the sport after serving a 12-month suspension, played only 4 matches before being reported again. He was handed his second suspension in December 2016. However, in January 2018, the ICC had cleared his action. Vitori flexes his elbow more than the accepted 15 degrees and that is why he has been reported.
Vitori's troubles with his bowling action
January 2016- He was reported for the first time. February 2016- Suspended for the first time. June 2016- His action was declared legal. December 2016 - Suspended for 12 months. January 2018- He resumed bowling in international matches after serving a ban. March 2018- Reported and suspended again.
Vitori out of Zimbabwe's World Cup qualifiers
Doubts were raised over Vitori's bowling action during Zimbabwe's qualifier against Nepal on Sunday. The 28-year-old was then closely watched and filmed during Zimbabwe's next game against Afghanistan on Tuesday. Two members of the ICC panel of Human Movement Specialists reviewed the footage and found his action illegal. Vitori will have to undergo bio-mechanical testing once again.
What is illegal bowling action?
A bowling action is deemed illegal if a player is throwing the ball rather than bowling. As per ICC, a player has an illegal action when his "elbow extends by an amount of more than 15-degrees between their arm reaching horizontal and ball being released."
