Shakib cleared to bowl again

He underwent two separate reassessments

Bangladesh's veteran all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan has finally been cleared of a suspect bowling action after months of scrutiny and uncertainty. The 37-year-old had previously failed two reassessments, but his latest test results confirm that he has now successfully rectified his action.

This development comes as a major relief for Shakib, who was left out of Bangladesh's Champions Trophy squad because selectors were unwilling to include him solely as a specialist batter.

His suspension from bowling had ruled him out of the ICC event, which he had considered a potential farewell tournament in international cricket.

The phrase "third time lucky" proved true for Shakib, who cleared his latest bowling action test in England. Speaking to a local sports platform, the former captain confirmed the news with evident joy.

"The news is right (about passing the bowling test), and I am cleared to bowl again," Shakib said.

Shakib's bowling action first came under scrutiny during a County Championship match for Surrey against Somerset in September 2024.

Subsequently, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) suspended him after an independent evaluation deemed his action illegal.

Following the suspension, Shakib underwent two separate reassessments—first in England and then in India—failing both attempts before finally receiving clearance in his latest test.

It is important to note that Shakib's troubles began in September 2024, when he played for Surrey in the County Championship against Somerset. After the match, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) tested his action and found that his elbow extension was exceeding the allowed 15-degree limit. As a result, he was banned from bowling in England.

The 37-year-old all rounder then failed a second test in January, which meant he couldn't bowl in any domestic or international matches.

Meanwhile, Shakib hasn't played since the Abu Dhabi T10 in November 2024. With no contracts in IPL or PSL, his next chance to return to action could be Bangladesh's upcoming ODI series against Sri Lanka.