Rediff.com« Back to articlePrint this article

Ajmal's bowling action to be reassessed in Chennai on Jan 24

January 13, 2015 18:22 IST

Saeed AjmalSuspended Pakistan off-spinner Saeed Ajmal's modified bowling action will be put through an official ICC test in Chennai on January 24.

The bowler, who will miss the World Cup because of suspension for illegal action, had said he would prefer to be tested in Brisbane and not Chennai.

On Tuesday, though, he said he has no issues about taking it in Chennai.

"The PCB has informed me I will take the test in Chennai as per instructions of the ICC and I have no issues going to India," he added.

Ajmal, who was suspended from bowling in international cricket last September, also made it clear that there is no indication from the PCB about being drafted into the World Cup squad at the last minute if he clears the Chennai test.

"Right now I am only thinking about the test and I am confident I can pass it this time and get to bowl again in international cricket," he added.

Pakistan's other suspended off-spinner, Muhammad Hafeez, recently undertook an unofficial test at the bowling centre in Chennai but will probably travel to Brisbane for his official ICC test before the World Cup.

Hafeez was also suspended from bowling in international cricket in November after failing the ICC test but made it to Pakistan’s final World Cup squad as an opening batsman.

An official of the Pakistan Cricket Board said though the ICC had informed them about a tentative date for Ajmal's test and also confirmed it would be held in Chennai, a final written confirmation is awaited.

"Saeed is ready to take the official test and we are also ready to back him as he has worked very hard on correcting his bowling action," the official said.

Confusion prevails over Ajmal’s fate if he fails the official ICC test as there is talk about him not being able to take a retest for 12 months.

A source in the board said clarification on the issue has been sought.

Image: Saeed Ajmal

Photograph: Gareth Copley/Getty Images

AGENCIES