Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan has been cleared to resume bowling in the County Championship and The Hundred after passing his latest bowling assessment conducted by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB). official ECB statement here The decision comes after Shakib successfully underwent a third assessment at Loughborough University on March 9, 2025, confirming that his action is now within legal limits.
Background: Why Was Shakib Suspended?
Shakib was suspended from bowling in September 2024 after the ECB found his action to be illegal during his sole County Championship appearance for Surrey. Shakib’s suspension was automatically enforced across all domestic and international formats in accordance with ICC regulations on illegal bowling actions.
Shakib’s Road to Clearance
Shakib had never previously been reported for an illegal action in his 20-year professional career. However, he faced a lengthy suspension after failing his initial assessments.
- December 2024 – Failed his first assessment at Loughborough University and was officially suspended.
- January 2025 – Failed a second assessment in Chennai, leading to his exclusion from Bangladesh’s Champions Trophy squad.
- February 2025 – Arrived in the UK to train with Surrey ahead of his third and final assessment.
- March 9, 2025 – Underwent a third bowling test at Loughborough University.
- March 20, 2025 – ECB lifted his bowling suspension after all 22 deliveries in his test were deemed legal.
What’s Next for Shakib Al Hasan?
With his suspension lifted, Shakib is now eligible to bowl in all domestic and international competitions. He is expected to continue playing for Surrey in the upcoming County Championship season and is also likely to participate in The Hundred later this year.
Shakib’s return to bowling strengthens his position in both domestic and international cricket, providing a significant boost to both Surrey and Bangladesh as he looks to re-establish himself in the game.
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