South Africa’s Prenelan Subrayen gets ICC all-clear – Full story
Prenelan Subrayen cleared by ICC to bowl after passing independent action test in Brisbane.
South Africa off-spinner Prenelan Subrayen has received the green light from the International Cricket Council (ICC) to continue bowling in international cricket. The decision comes after his action was reported as suspect during the first ODI against Australia in Cairns last month.
Subrayen was tested at the National Cricket Centre in Brisbane on 26 August, where biomechanical analysis confirmed that the degree of elbow extension across all his deliveries fell within the 15-degree tolerance permitted under ICC Illegal Bowling Regulations. This outcome effectively clears him of any illegality and restores his eligibility to feature as a bowler for South Africa.
The 31-year-old all-rounder, who has played just two internationals for the Proteas — a Test against Zimbabwe and an ODI in Australia earlier this year — will now be eager to add to his tally of wickets on the world stage. He picked up his maiden ODI wicket on the recent tour of Australia before being sidelined for further scrutiny of his action.
Previous Challenges With Bowling Action
This is not the first time Subrayen’s bowling has been under the microscope. His action was first questioned in 2012, leading to rehabilitation under Cricket South Africa’s supervision. Though cleared in 2013, issues resurfaced during the 2014 Champions League T20 in India, and in 2015, he was suspended after all his deliveries were found to exceed the allowable flexion limit. A failed reassessment in early 2016 delayed his comeback, but remedial work eventually saw him cleared again that March.
Such a turbulent history has shaped Subrayen’s journey in professional cricket. Despite setbacks, his resilience and determination have ensured repeated returns to the field. His clearance this time provides fresh hope of a consistent run at the international level, particularly as South Africa fine-tunes their squad for upcoming white-ball tournaments.
South Africa’s Outlook
The Proteas had mixed fortunes on their recent tour of Australia, losing the T20I series 1-2 before clinching the ODIs. Subrayen’s reinstatement as a legal bowler will boost squad depth, especially in the spin department, where options remain limited outside of Keshav Maharaj and Tabraiz Shamsi.
With this clearance, Subrayen can look forward to cementing his place in South Africa’s plans as they prepare for the next cycle of global tournaments.
