Steve Smith on Matthew Kuhnemann’s bowling action being reported: ‘He has been playing for 8 years in professional cricket’

Steve Smith said he was “surprised” when he heard the news that left-arm spinner Matthew Kuhnemann’s bowling action was reported “illegal” during Australia’s recently-concluded Test series against Sri Lanka. Australia won the series 2-0 under Smith’s captaincy, who was filling in for injured Pat Cummins.

The left-arm finger spinner took 16 wickets in Australia’s two Tests in Galle, at an average of 17.18.

“It’s come as a bit of a surprise to me,” Smith was quoted by ABC news.

Story continues below this ad

“He has been playing for eight years in professional cricket and nothing has been said in that amount of time.

“I am thinking of him. At present, he has to go through the process.

Australia’s Matthew Kuhnemann celebrates the wicket of Sri Lanka’s Prabath Jayasuriya during day three of the second test cricket match between Sri Lanka and Australia in Galle, Sri Lanka, Saturday, Feb. 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Eranga Jayawardena) Australia’s Matthew Kuhnemann celebrates the wicket of Sri Lanka’s Prabath Jayasuriya during day three of the second test cricket match between Sri Lanka and Australia in Galle, Sri Lanka, Saturday, Feb. 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Eranga Jayawardena)

“We’re confident he will pass. He will go through that process back home. We wish him all the best.”

A bowler is allowed 15 degrees of of extension in their elbow before a bowling delivery is considered illegal.

Story continues below this ad

Kuhnemann will undergo biomechanical testing on his action in the next 10 days, after match officials labelled it suspect during the second Test against Sri Lanka.

“The Australian team was notified of the match officials’ referral following the second Test against Sri Lanka in Galle and will support Matt through the process of clearing this matter,” Cricket Australia had said in a statement on Wednesday.

Australia bowler Matthew Kuhnemann has been reported for a suspect action. (AP) Australia bowler Matthew Kuhnemann has been reported for a suspect action. (AP)

“Matt has played 124 professional matches since his debut in 2017, including five Test matches and four one-day internationals. He has played 55 Big Bash League games since 2018. This is the first time in those eight years of professional cricket that his action been questioned.

“Cricket Australia will liaise closely with the ICC and independent experts in line with ICC regulations.

Story continues below this ad

“No further comment will be made by Cricket Australia or Matthew until the matter is resolved.”

Kuhnemann is free to play domestic cricket for Tasmania before the test is completed.

Click here to read article