Why Australian Test spinner Matthew Kuhnemann was always sure his bowling action would be cleared

Australian cricketer and Test spinner Matthew Kuhnemann has revealed that he remained confident his bowling action would pass scrutiny after being reported to the International Cricket Council (ICC) for a suspect action during Australia's tour of Sri Lanka.

Kuhnemann performed strongly on the Sri Lanka tour, taking 16 wickets at an average of 17.18, despite battling a thumb injury. However, his bowling action was reported as suspect after the second Test. The 28-year-old, who had never been reported before, subsequently underwent testing in Brisbane, after which the ICC declared his action legal.

In an interview, Kuhnemann stated, "I was very confident in my bowling action. I've never had trouble with it. I've bowled millions of balls in training and matches, and I know exactly what I'm doing." He added that being reported was more shocking and surprising than frustrating, and he was more concerned with completing the investigation process quickly so he could focus on upcoming matches.

During the investigation, Kuhnemann was prohibited from participating in international cricket. He used this time to rest and recover, having undertaken a significant workload of bowling in the preceding months. Despite the disruption, Kuhnemann remained confident that he would pass the assessment. He explained that the testing process was straightforward, involving numerous cameras and sensors capturing body data, which was then analyzed by experts. He expressed gratitude to Cricket Australia and the ICC for their support, which enabled him to complete the testing promptly.

Although Kuhnemann passed the assessment, when asked if he would be negatively affected by the experience, he stated that the test results speak for themselves. He emphasized that he had passed the test, accepted the process, and can now continue his career. Everyone is entitled to their own opinion, but the bottom line is that he passed the test and can continue his cricket career.

Kuhnemann's performance under pressure in Sri Lanka was among the best of his career, especially considering his finger injury. Initially, there were doubts about his participation in the tour due to a compound dislocation of his right thumb in a Big Bash match. Kuhnemann recalled sitting in the physio room, looking at the exposed bone, and thinking "this couldn't have happened at a worse time," but he believes that's cricket, and everything happens for a reason. He stated that it is an honor to wear the Australian green and gold again, and a little bit of pain is worth it.