ICC suspends Akila Dananjaya from bowling with immediate effect

Sri Lankan bowlers have had their fair share of problems with the ICC in the past, the most famous case being that of star pacer - Lasith Malinga. Now the international cricket body has suspended another Lankan cricketer for an illegal bowling action, off-break spinner Akila Dananjaya.

The Sri Lankan spinner, who is now a part of the team in all three formats, has been suspended from international cricket, effective immediately. Dananjaya’s action was first questioned last month during the first Test at home which England won by 211 runs. The off-break bowler was ordered to take an independent assessment which was carried out at the National Cricket Centre in Brisbane, Australia.

"The assessment revealed that his deliveries exceeded the 15 degrees level of tolerance permitted under the regulations," the ICC said in a statement.

The report further added that Dananjaya could apply for a fresh assessment after modifying his bowling action. However, the 25-year old is allowed to play in domestic matches for the time being.

During the first Test against England, Dananjaya ended with figures 2/184 runs in the match that concluded in four days at Galle last month. The match officials' report, which was handed over to the Sri Lanka team management, revealed concerns over the legality of Dananjaya’s bowling action.