International cricket: Ajmal confident of returning to action
Sunday 25 January 2015 11:41, UK
Pakistan off-spinner Saeed Ajmal says he is confident of having his bowling action cleared after having an official test.
Ajmal believes he can resurrect his career after being put through his paces at an International Cricket Council accredited bio-mechanics centre in India on Saturday.
The Worcestershire spinner, who took part in a "private test" in a laboratory in Edgbaston in mid-January, was suspended from international cricket in September due to his illegal bowling action and will miss next month's World Cup as a result.
"I felt those who tested me were happy with my action," Ajmal told Indian newspaper The Hindu. "I am hopeful, but ultimately the decision rests with them.
"I bowled 30 deliveries. And I bowled five different kinds of balls six times each.
"If I had just wanted to bowl the off-spinner, I could have got my action cleared in two weeks.
“But I want to retain my variety. I think my doosra is within permissible limits now.”
Ajmal, who was banned from bowling after being reported during a Test against Sri Lanka, praised former Pakistan spinner Saqlain Mushtaq for his support.
He added: "I want to be a frontline bowler, the No 1 bowler in the side.
"I don't want to make up numbers. I would rather retire than do that.
"Saqlain Bhai (brother) told me there was no use being depressed.
“He inspired me to pick myself up.”
