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Shoaib Malik reported for suspect action

All rounder reported by match officials to the ICC for potentially flawed action

Wisden Cricinfo staff
12-Jul-2005


Shoaib Malik: under scrutiny © Getty Images
Pakistan's offspinning allrounder, Shoaib Malik, has been reported to the ICC for a potentially flawed bowling action, following his side's defeat in the final of the Paktel Cup at Lahore on Saturday. Shoaib, who took 1 for 56 from 10 overs in the match, was reported by the on-field umpires, Aleem Dar and Simon Taufel, the third umpire Asad Rauf, and the match referee, Jeff Crowe.
"The match officials reviewed Mr Malik's action during the match and have decided to refer the bowler to stage one of the ICC's process for assessing bowlers with potentially flawed actions," said Malcolm Speed, the ICC's chief executive. "We have now notified the Pakistan Cricket Board of this step."
Speed added that Shoaib would be dealt with by the current process for bowlers with potentially flawed actions, although he will still be allowed to play in the meantime. "This issue now comes under the ICC's regulations dealing with this matter and over the next six weeks an expert biomechanist from the ICC's Approved List will be appointed by the Pakistan Cricket Board to work with the bowler."
There is some potential for ambiguity, given that the current system is undergoing a review, although Speed reiterated that Shoaib would be dealt with in accordance to the guidelines as they stand. He will now work with an expert team over the next six weeks to address the concerns about his action, and he may not be reported again in this time.
"At the end of [the six weeks] the ICC will be provided with a specialist report on the remedial action, if any is required," added Speed. "This report will be circulated to the elite panel of ICC umpires and referees for their information. If Mr Malik is again reported within 12 months of this initial report, the matter will be dealt with by the ICC's Bowling Review Group which has the power to suspend a player."