Eight of Asif’s deliveries during the third ODI were reported

Image courtesy of: ESPNcricinfo

Pakistan off-spinner Bilal Asif has been reported for a suspect action after taking his maiden five-wicket haul during the third ODI against Zimbabwe on Monday.

Asif’s figures of 5-25 off 10 overs played an instrumental role in leading Pakistan to victory by seven wickets and helping them clinch the series 2-1.

It is understood that eight of Asif’s deliveries were reported during the third ODI and he will now have two weeks to get his action tested at an International Cricket Council (ICC)-accredited facility once the ICC send the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) a report. However, Asif will be allowed to bowl until the results of his test are revealed.

“Bilal’s action has been reported after the third ODI and we are following the procedure with the ICC,” Pakistan team manager Intikhab Alam told ESPNcricinfo.

Should Asif’s action turn out to be illegal, it will be a major blow for Pakistan as they had drafted him into the side to bowl in place of all-rounder Mohammad Hafeez, who is currently banned from bowling for one year.