Australian left-arm spinner Matt Kuhnemann has been cleared for international bowling by the International Cricket Council (ICC) after undergoing a series of tests to evaluate his bowling action. This is a major highlight in the career of the Australian cricketer, who had earlier been reported for suspect bowling action after his impressive performance in Sri Lanka.
Background: The Suspect Bowling Action Incident
Kuhnemann’s move was under scrutiny after his dominant bowling during Australia’s 2-0 Test series win over Sri Lanka, taking 16 wickets.
Following the victory, the bowler was reported to have a suspect action, leading to a set of tests to check if his bowling complied with the rules laid out by ICC concerning the extent of elbow movement.
Prior to this incident, Kuhnemann had never been reported for a suspected bowling action in his entire career, which goes back to 2017. His consistent performances in the domestic and international circuits made the report a bit unexpected.
The Testing Process and Outcome
On February 15, 2025, Kuhnemann also had an independent analysis of his bowling action at the National Cricket Centre in Brisbane. The analysis included extensive analysis with high-speed cameras, 3D motion tracking, and other advanced technology. Kuhnemann was required to bowl at comparable speeds and revolutions to what he bowled at during the second Test match in Galle, Sri Lanka. This enabled the ICC’s specialist team to closely examine his bowling mechanics.
The result of the test confirmed that Kuhnemann’s extension of the elbow in all his deliveries was well within the 15-degree tolerance level of the ICC, the highest permissible under the ICC’s Illegal Bowling Rules. With this assurance, the bowler was given the green light to resume international cricket.
Australian Cricket and Team Mates Support
The lead-up to the test was certainly not an easy time for Kuhnemann, having to go through the uncertainty of his future in the sport. But he did not go through this tough time alone.
His teammates, even Australia’s captain, Steven Smith, spoke in his full support. Smith, when looking back at the time, said he was surprised, as Kuhnemann had played professional cricket for eight years without any problem regarding his action.
Smith added, “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 the process and wish him all the best.”
Recovery and Future Prospects
While Kuhnemann is currently available to bowl, his comeback to the team has been delayed since he was injured during the Big Bash League (BBL). The left-handed spinner dislocated his thumb and has not played since then. Currently, his availability for Tasmania’s Sheffield Shield match against Queensland on March 6 remains to be seen.
In spite of this, Kuhnemann’s long-term future remains rosy. He is among the strong favorites to be on Australia’s Test tour of the West Indies in June and July 2025, where he might again be a key part of the national team.
Reassurance from Cricket Australia
Ben Oliver, Cricket Australia’s executive general manager of national teams, welcomed the news, saying, “We are happy for Matt that this situation is now behind him. It has been difficult for Matt, however, he has conducted himself superbly. He has had the complete support of Australian cricket, and he can now go about getting on to the next stage of his international career with great confidence.”
A Bright Future Ahead
Kuhnemann’s career is only just beginning, but his talent has already been apparent. In five Tests, he has already claimed 25 wickets at a remarkable average of 22.20. His success in Sri Lanka, combined with his good health in relation to his bowling action, indicates that he has a bright future ahead of him in Australian cricket.
With his action now cleared and the backing of his teammates and Australian cricket authorities, Matt Kuhnemann is ready to restart his international career with renewed confidence and hope for the future.
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