Saeed Ajmal Suspended for Illegal Bowling Action: ICC
In a major blow to Pakistan five months before the World Cup, Saeed Ajmal has been barred from taking part in international cricket.
Top Pakistani off-spinner Saeed Ajmal has been suspended from international cricket after tests found his bowling action was illegal, the International Cricket Council (ICC) said on Tuesday. (Related: Lahore Lions Get India Visas for CLT20)
Ajmal, the world's number one bowler in one-day internationals, was suspended "with immediate effect" following an assessment in Brisbane last month. (Also Read: Hafeez Vows to Spread 'Love' During CLT20)
The 36-year-old was reported for a suspect action after last month's first Test against Sri Lanka in Galle. He can apply for a re-assessment once he has modified his action. (ICC's Complete Statement)
I will help and support saeed ajmal to the best of my ability if required
- Saqlain Mushtaq (@Saqlain_Mushtaq) September 9, 2014
"The player has been suspended from bowling in international cricket with immediate effect," the ICC statement said.
"The analysis revealed that all his deliveries exceeded the 15 degrees level of tolerance permitted under the regulations." (Read: Afridi, Alam Top Contenders For Pakistan's T20 Captaincy)
The ruling is a blow to Pakistan ahead of their series against Australia in the United Arab Emirates starting next month.
It also comes just a few months before the one-day Cricket World Cup in Australia and New Zealand, which starts in February.