One of Sri Lanka’s premier fast bowlers Shaminda Eranga has been reported with a suspect bowling action during the second Test against England, which the visitors lost by 9 wickets on Monday.
The match officials, including on-field umpires Aleem Dar and S. Ravi, TV umpire Rod Tucker and Match Referee Andy Pycroft handed over the Match Officials’ report to the Sri Lankan management in which concerns regarding the legality of Eranga’s action were brought into question.
The 29 year-old’s bowling action will now be scrutinized further under the ICC process relating to suspected illegal bowling actions reported in Tests, ODIs and T20Is. He is required to undergo further testing within 14 days of the report, but will be able to play International cricket until the results of the tests are known, meaning that he will be available for the 3rd Test against England at Lords.
Eranga’s contributions are critical to the Sri Lankan plans, particularly in the Test arena, as they are already without key fast bowlers Dhammika Prasad and Dushmantha Chameera, who sustained injuries during the ongoing England tour.
If the officials’ suspicions are confirmed and Eranga’s action is found to be illegal, it will be a huge blow to Sri Lanka as they host Australia in what promises to be a tough home series beginning in July.
