Ireland left-arm spinner Aimee Maguire has been suspended from bowling in international cricket with immediate effect her action was deemed illegal by the International Cricket Council (ICC) on Thursday.
The 18-year-old was reported by match officials for a suspect bowling action during the first ODI series against India in Rajkot on 10 January, where she picked up 3 for 57 from eight overs.
She subsequently underwent a bowling assessment at the ICC Accredited testing centre in Loughborough, United Kingdom, on 21 January, where it was revealed that the amount of elbow extension in her bowling action exceeds the 15-degree level of tolerance permitted under the ICC Illegal Bowling Regulations.
“As a result, in accordance with clause 6.1 of the regulations, Aimee is immediately suspended from bowling in international cricket. Her suspension will remain in effect until she undergoes a re-assessment of her bowling action which confirms that she can bowl with a legal action,” said an ICC release.
Prior to the assessment, the Ireland’s cricket association came out in full support of the spinner. “The staff and players are rallying around Aimee, reassuring her that she will return with a stronger action and will continue to shine on the international stage for many years to come,” said Graeme West, Director of High Performance at Cricket Ireland.