Sri Lanka bowler questioned

Sri Lanka off-spinner Sachithra Senanayake has been reported with a suspected illegal bowling action during his side’s victory over England in the fourth One-Day International at Lord’s on Saturday.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) says Senanayake was reported at the end of the match by on-field umpires Marais Erasmus and Ian Gould, TV Umpire Chris Gaffaney and match referee Jeff Crowe.

Crowe handed over the copy of the report to the Sri Lanka team manager on Sunday, the ICC said.

The umpires’ report cited concerns over a number of deliveries that were considered to be suspect.

Senanayake’s bowling action will now be scrutinised further under the ICC process relating to bowlers reported in Tests, ODIs and T20Is. 

Sri Lanka was caught off guard by the report.

"Since Sachithra had over the past two years played many bilateral / ICC tournaments and four earlier games in the current tour without any hint of suspicion, this comes as a surprise to SLC," Sri Lanka Cricket said in a statement.

"As however, the ICC has a procedure in place for situations such as this, SLC has no option but to adhere to the laid down process."

The off-spinner is required to undergo testing within 21 days, and, during this period, he is permitted to continue bowling in international cricket until the results of the testing are known.

The reporting of the Sri Lankan follows West Indian Kevin Cooper having his action questioned after a game for the Rajasthan Royasl in the IPL.

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