IPL 2020: KKR releases official statement after Sunil Narine is reported for suspect bowling action

Sunil Narine turned out to be a hero for the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in their last two wins, especially against the Kings XI Punjab (KXIP). But all the joy turned sour soon after the match, as the off-spinner was reported for suspect bowling action on Saturday, October 10. Though he is still not banned from bowling, Narine has been placed in the warning list and another such report will lead to him not bowling for the rest of the Indian Premier League (IPL) season.

Meanwhile, the franchise has released an official statement on the matter now and stated that the team was surprised to know about the match officials’ concern over Sunil Narine’s bowling action. KKR also pointed out in the statement that the West Indies player featured in six matches of the season and none of the officials expressed concerns formally or informally to them.

“Mr. Sunil Narine was reported for suspect action by the match officials after KKR’s match vs KXIP held on Oct 10, 2020 in Abu Dhabi. This came as a surprise to the franchise and Mr. Narine, considering he has played over 115 games in the IPL since 2012 and as many as 68 games since 2015, when he was last reported during the IPL season for a suspect action before being subsequently cleared completely by SRASSC, an ICC accredited facility.

“Furthermore, he was playing his 6th game this season, with no concerns expressed formally or informally by the match officials so far,” the statement read.

KKR working closely with IPL

However, the franchise has also assured that it will work closely with the concerned officials in the IPL over the matter and get the resolution to Sunil Narine’s bowling action soon. “Having said this, we are respectful of the process that the IPL has put in place to have his action reviewed, and are working closely with the IPL in this matter.

“We are hopeful that there would be an appropriate resolution quickly. We appreciate the cooperation being extended by the IPL in expediting this matter,” the statement further read. Meanwhile, there are question marks over Sunil Narine playing the next game for KKR against Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) on Monday.

Moreover, Andre Russell was also injured in the previous game and they might have to take the field without two of their top overseas players. In that case, Tom Banton and Chris Green are expected to make their IPL and KKR debut.