Pokana suspended from bowling

In a massive blow to the Hebou PNG Barramundis’ Cricket World Cup Qualification campaign, the International Cricket Council (ICC) announced yesterday that the Barra’s fast bowler has been suspended from bowling.

The ICC announced that an independent assessment has found the bowling action of Nosiana Pokana to be illegal and, as such, the left-arm fast bowler has been suspended from bowling in international cricket with immediate effect.

The assessment revealed that all his deliveries exceeded the 15 degrees level of tolerance permitted under the regulations.

In accordance with Article 6.1 of the ICC Illegal Bowling Regulations, Pokana’s international suspension will also be recognised and enforced by all National Cricket Federations for domestic cricket events played in their own jurisdiction.

However, according to Article 11.5 of the Regulations and with the consent of the Cricket PNG, Pokana may be able to bowl in domestic cricket events played under the auspices of Cricket PNG.  

Pokana was reported during a One Day International (ODI) between the Hebou PNG Barramundis and Hong Kong in Dubai on 8 December 2017, and had undergone an independent assessment of his bowling action on 6 January 2018 at the National Cricket Centre, Brisbane.

Pokana can apply for a re-assessment after modifying his bowling action in accordance with clause 4.5 of the Regulations.

Pokana, from Kalo Village in Central Province, has been a regular member of the Hebou PNG Barramundis since making his debut in a T20 International (T20I) against Ireland in Townsville in February, 2016.

Pokana became the 114th player to play for the Hebou PNG Barramundis PNG and has played five ODIs and three T20Is for his country.  

This decision has meant that Pokana will not be available for selection for the upcoming ICC Cricket World Cup Qualifier in Zimbabwe, where the Hebou PNG Barramundis will be vying to qualify for their first ever ICC Cricket World Cup.   

(Nosiana Pokana bowling)

Author: 
Press release