The ICC has confirmed that match referee Naushad Ali has formally reported England bowler James Kirtley for a suspect bowling action.

The report was made after the fourth ODI, following observations made by the referee during the series between Zimbabwe and England. James Kirtley played in the first, second and fourth of these matches.

The ICC has a clear three-stage process for bowlers reported by umpires or referees. James Kirtley has been referred to Stage One of the process, which means that he can continue to play international and first class cricket, while working with a panel of specialist advisors appointed by the ECB to review his bowling action.

A detailed report will be compiled and submitted to the ICC by the ECB within a six week period of the report being made.

Stages Two and Three of the ICC Reporting process are:

Stage Two

* if the player is reported again within 12 months of the first report the ICC, in consultation with the relevant Board, will appoint one of its own advisors to work directly with the player on his action. A further detailed assessment will then be submitted by the ICC advisor within three months.

* the report will be circulated as in Stage One and the bowler can continue to play

Stage Three

* a third report in 12 months will activate the ICC Bowling Review Group, which will meet with the bowler and his representatives to discuss the previous two assessment reports, video footage and any further evidence supplied by the player or his Board.

* at the end of the hearing the player will leave and a vote taken to determine if he has an illegal action. If a majority is passed to this effect the bowler will be banned from bowling in international cricket for 12 months from the date of the hearing.

For more information, please contact:

Mark Harrison
ICC Communications Manager
Tel: 020 7266 7913/1818
Email: mark.harrison@icc-cricket.com

© ICC