Harbhajan reported for 'doosra'

Published December 21, 2004

LONDON, Dec 20: India off-spinner Harbhajan Singh has been reported for a suspected illegal bowling action after concerns were raised over his 'doosra' delivery, the International Cricket Council (ICC) announced on Monday.

Among those making the report was former England batsman Chris Broad, now a match referee, who earlier this year raised similar concerns about Sri Lanka's former Test wicket world record-holder Muttiah Muralitharan's 'doosra', a delivery which turns away from a right-handed batsman - the opposite of an orthodox off-spin ball.

In a statement, the ICC said the report had been made following the conclusion of Monday's second Test between Bangladesh and India in Chittagong where Harbahajan took two for 19 in the hosts's second innings during an innings and 83 run-win that saw India clinch the series 2-0.

As well as Broad, the ICC said the report was made by on-field umpires, Aleem Dar (Pakistan) and Mark Benson (England) and the TV umpire, Mahbubur Rahman (Bangladesh).

ICC chief executive Malcolm Speed said: "Having closely reviewed the action Harbhajan Singh employs during this delivery, the match officials decided to report the bowler to the ICC and, in line with the protocol, notified the India team management of this course of action."

HE ADDED: "Harbhajan Singh will now work with an expert team over the next six weeks to address these concerns. He can continue to play international cricket and cannot be reported again during this period."

Although the ICC ultimately has the power to ban from international cricket any bowler it considers has an illegal action, its rules for dealing with such cases are currently in limbo. -AFP

Opinion

Editorial

After the deluge
Updated 16 Jun, 2024

After the deluge

There was a lack of mental fortitude in the loss against India while against US, the team lost all control and displayed a lack of cohesion and synergy.
Fugue state
16 Jun, 2024

Fugue state

WITH its founder in jail these days, it seems nearly impossible to figure out what the PTI actually wants. On one...
Sindh budget
16 Jun, 2024

Sindh budget

SINDH’S Rs3.06tr budget for the upcoming financial year is a combination of populist interventions, attempts to...
Slow start
Updated 15 Jun, 2024

Slow start

Despite high attendance, the NA managed to pass only a single money bill during this period.
Sindh lawlessness
Updated 15 Jun, 2024

Sindh lawlessness

A recently released report describes the law and order situation in Karachi as “worryingly poor”.
Punjab budget
15 Jun, 2024

Punjab budget

PUNJAB’S budget for 2024-25 provides much fodder to those who believe that the increased provincial share from the...