Ambati Rayudu reported for suspect bowling action

Ambati Rayudu has been reported with a suspect bowling action during the first ODI of the ongoing India-Australia series.

The 33-year-old, who was part of the Indian side that lost the first game to Australia, was reported for his action during his two-over spell at Sydney, where he conceded 13 runs.

Observant followers' suspicion was raised, some of whom had taken to Twitter during the game to question the legality of Rayudu's bent arm.

An occasional off-spinner, Rayudu has so far bowled just over 20 overs during his 46-ODI career, and has taken a total of three wickets.

I sometimes doubt the bowling action of Ambati Rayudu

— Sanchit Maheshwari (@Sanchit_VM) January 12, 2019

If Ambati Rayudu doesn’t get called for a suspect action today, I’ll have to believe that the Indian bowlers are being favoured!!! Or do I smell a scapegoat? #INDvAUS #fairplay

— U. M. Ranaweera (@milstermili) January 12, 2019

He will now be required to undergo testing within the next 14 days. While he can still continue bowling during the testing period at the international level, his action will be scrutinized by the ICC.

According to an ICC release, Rayudu's case came to the fore after the match officials, post the conclusion of the first ODI, handed a report to the Indian team, raising concerns about his bowling arm.

From recent memory, another established Indian name, who came under suspicion for his bowling action, was left-arm spinner Pragyan Ojha. In 2014, he was banned from bowling in competitive cricket after his action was found to be illegal.

Last decade, Harbhajan Singh was also under the scrutiny, especially while bowling the doosra. He was called twice, in 1999, and 2006, with a suspect action, and later rectified it to conform with the laws of the ICC.

The action (no pun intended) will continue in Australia, with the second ODI scheduled to take place on 15th January in Adelaide. Australia currently leads the three-match ODI series, having won the opening ODI by 34 runs.