Shakib Al Hasan, Bangladesh’s star all-rounder, has been requested by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) to undergo an assessment of his bowling action following concerns raised by umpires during his single County Championship match for Surrey this season.
At 37, Shakib made a notable comeback to the County scene, taking nine wickets in an intense match against Somerset at Taunton in September. This appearance marked his return to the competition since his brief tenure with Worcestershire in the 2010-11 season. Joining Surrey as a left-arm spinner on a short-term deal, Shakib stepped in to strengthen the squad, which was depleted due to the absence of eight players on England duty, including primary spinners Will Jacks and Dan Lawrence. Despite Shakib’s impressive performance, Surrey ultimately fell to Somerset by 111 runs, delaying their quest for a third consecutive Championship title.
During the match, Shakib bowled over 63 overs without being called for throwing. However, the on-field umpires, Steve O'Shaughnessy and David Millns, reportedly found aspects of his action questionable. While Shakib is not currently barred from playing, ESPNcricinfo has reported that arrangements are underway for him to complete a formal review at an authorised facility, expected to take place within the next two weeks.
Remarkably, this is the first instance in Shakib’s two-decade career—spanning 447 international matches and 712 wickets, including 246 in 71 Tests—where his bowling action has faced scrutiny.
Meanwhile, Shakib’s international career is on hold after security-related concerns led him to withdraw from Bangladesh’s Test squad for a match against South Africa in Mirpur last month. His absence coincided with protests following his tenure as a Member of Parliament under Bangladesh’s longstanding Awami League government, which faced upheaval amid student demonstrations in July.