Shabbir's action found to be within ICC limits

Shabbir Ahmed's rectified bowling action has been found to be within the current parameters set by the ICC, following extensive tests conducted at the University of Western Australia.

Saleem Altaf, Director Operations Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), told Cricinfo that he had received communication from officials at the university who said they were satisfied Shabbir's action, as it stands, is within the ICC tolerance level, which allows for bowlers to flex their arms up to 15 degrees from the elbow.

Altaf said, "We received communication today stating that, as per the tests they conducted, Shabbir's action is within the tolerance level. The next step is now for the university to use the results of their tests and send it as a report to the ICC. They plan to do this during the middle of next week."

The ICC will then decide on a course of action, in consultation with the PCB, once they receive the report. Altaf added, "Once they have received the report we will be in touch with them to see what the next step is. They can read the report and clear him or they can call him up before their bowling action review committee for one final clearance. In this case, an official will travel with him to that meeting. We would ideally like this whole procedure to be over before the England series so he is cleared to play."

Shabbir was reported for a suspect action for the third time in his career against the West Indies in May this year. He chose to work with Bob Woolmer, the Pakistan coach, instead of seeking help outside the country from specialists to rectify his faults. Under current regulations, if he is reported twice within two years, he faces a suspension from all forms of cricket.

The ICC, however, is keen to stress that no bowler is permanently cleared. Dave Richardson, general manager ICC, said earlier this month, "All bowlers are subject to further reporting if the match officials are of the view that they have concerns about whether a delivery or deliveries conform to the laws of cricket when observed with the naked eye."