Shakib Al Hasan Faces Bowling Suspension Over Illegal Action

LONDON: Bangladesh’s all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan has been prohibited from bowling in England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) competitions after his action was deemed illegal.

The 37-year-old spinner was reported by umpires during his sole appearance in the County Championship for Surrey against Somerset in September. The match, played on a spin-friendly pitch in Taunton, saw Shakib take nine wickets across two innings, though Surrey lost by 111 runs. Despite the loss, Surrey eventually claimed the County Championship title.

Following the match, Shakib underwent an independent assessment at Loughborough University earlier this month. The results revealed his bowling action exceeded the 15-degree elbow extension limit outlined in the regulations.

An ECB statement confirmed the ban, which took effect on December 10, 2024, the day the assessment was officially received.

“Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan has been suspended from bowling in ECB competitions following an independent assessment of his bowling action,” the statement read.

As of now, Shakib is not contracted with any English county for the 2025 season. However, he remains ineligible to bowl in ECB tournaments until he passes another independent assessment proving his action complies with the prescribed limits.

One of the most experienced players for Bangladesh, Shakib has played 71 Tests, 247 ODIs, and 129 T20Is, amassing 712 wickets across formats during his illustrious career.