PCB seeks extension for test on Hafeez's action

PCB seeks extension for test on Hafeez’s action: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has requested the ICC for an extension to the July 4 deadline for off-spinner Mohammad Hafeez to undergo a test on his bowling action, which was reported as suspect after the first Test against Sri Lanka in Galle.

Hafeez had not yet been granted an Indian visa to travel to the ICC-accredited testing center in Chennai, and this prompted the board to hint at extraordinary circumstances.

Pakistan’s team manager Nadeem Akram Cheema was quoted by ESPNcricinfo saying, “With the extraordinary circumstances, we have requested the ICC to give a new date, “We have tried everything to make sure he had his test within 14 days but the visa hasn’t been granted by the Indian embassy here in Colombo. “We have asked for another date between third Test and ODI series.”

According to ICC regulations, Hafeez is allowed to bowl hitherto the results of the tests are out and he bowled 14 overs in the second Test in Colombo, which Pakistan lost by seven wickets. He has traveled to Pallekele, the venue for the third Test from July 3, to join the squad.

Hafeez was reported on June 21 and according to ICC regulations, the elbow of the bowler shouldn’t exceed the 15 degree mark. He faces a suspension of one year if he flouts the rule. Hafeez needed to appear for testing within 14 days. It is to be noted that it is the second time that his action has been found illegal in the last 2 years.