ICC Suspends Zimbabwe's Roy Kaia From Bowling In International Cricket For Illegal Action

Zimbabwe off-spinning allrounder Roy Kaia has been suspended from bowling in international cricket by the ICC with immediate effect after his bowling action was found to be illegal by an independent expert panel. He can later apply for a reexamination after modifying his action, in accordance with ICC regulations.

The 29-year-old can, however, bowl in domestic cricket should he obtain permission from Zimbabwe Cricket.

“Kaia’s international suspension will also be recognised and enforced by all National Cricket Federations for domestic cricket events played in their own jurisdiction,” an ICC release said.

“However, according to Article 11.5 of the Regulations and with the consent of Zimbabwe Cricket, Kaia may be able to bowl in domestic cricket events played under their auspices.”

Roy Kaia was reported with a suspect bowling action during the one-off Test against Bangladesh in Harare last month, which the hosts lost heavily by a margin of 220 runs. He had delivered 23 overs in the match without picking up a wicket; he bagged a pair with the bat.

“The panel concluded that his deliveries exceeding the 15 degrees level of tolerance permitted under the regulations and his bowling action was illegal,” the statement added.

Roy Kaia made his ODI debut in 2015, against Pakistan, but hasn’t been picked again in an ODI match since then. He made his Test debut earlier this year, also against Pakistan, and played a couple of more Tests.