Matt Kuhnemann has expressed relief and confidence after being cleared by the ICC to continue bowling, following an investigation into his action. The Australian left-arm spinner, who emerged as a key player during Australia’s triumph in Sri Lanka, was reported for a suspect action during the series. However, after undergoing biomechanical testing, Kuhnemann was found to be within the legal limits, putting an end to weeks of uncertainty.
In a statement on Thursday, the 28-year-old admitted that being reported was a frustrating moment, especially after delivering a standout performance in Sri Lanka, where he finished as the leading wicket-taker. Despite this, Kuhnemann remained confident in his action, having played 135 professional games since making his debut for a Cricket Australia XI in 2017.
“It was a disappointing way to finish what was such a successful Test series for Australia,” Matt Kuhnemann said. “I’ve never doubted my bowling action throughout my career and I’m always looking to improve the art of spin bowling in different conditions. The testing process was fair, and I appreciated the professional manner in which it was conducted.”
Matt Kuhnemann also acknowledged the unwavering support he received from Cricket Australia officials, teammates, and family. Stand-in captain Steve Smith had publicly backed him, expressing surprise at the ICC’s decision to review his action.
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“I am very grateful for all the support I have received from my family, friends, and teammates, and to Cricket Australia for standing by me throughout this process,” Matt Kuhnemann said. “I’m looking forward to finishing the Sheffield Shield season with Tasmania once my thumb has fully healed and preparing for future challenges.”
The left-arm spinner fractured his right thumb during the Big Bash League but played through the pain, taking 16 wickets at an average of 17.18 in the two Tests in Galle. If his recovery goes as planned, Kuhnemann could make his return as early as next Thursday for Tasmania against his former state, Queensland.
Australia left-arm spinner Matt Kuhnemann’s bowling action was reported following the Test series in Sri Lanka, and he was cleared following ICC testing on Wednesday
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Looking ahead, Kuhnemann is expected to be part of Australia’s squad for their upcoming three-Test series in the Caribbean, where spin-friendly conditions could see him play a key role. He is also being considered for Australia’s 2027 Border-Gavaskar Trophy defence in India, where his ability to spin the ball in the opposite direction to Nathan Lyon offers a valuable variation.
Kuhnemann’s talent was on full display during Australia’s last tour of India, where he took career-best figures of 5 for 16 in Indore, guiding his team to a crucial victory in just his second Test.
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Had he failed the ICC’s biomechanical testing in Brisbane on February 15, he would have been banned from bowling until remedial action was taken—a potentially significant hurdle for someone who has bowled with the same action throughout his career. With this chapter now behind him, Kuhnemann is focused on returning to full fitness and continuing his journey as Australia’s emerging spin force.
