Former cricketers back Ajmal after suspension; Saqlain offers help

London, Sep 9 :

Former cricketers came out in support of Saeed Ajmal after the Pakistan off-spinner was Tuesday suspended by the International Cricket Council (ICC) for an illegal bowling action.

Former Pakistan spinner Saqlain Mushtaq even offered to help Ajmal remodel his action five months before the 2015 World Cup to be held jointly by Australia and New Zealand.

“I will help and support saeed ajmal to the best of my ability if required,” tweeted Saqlain, who has 288 ODI and 208 Test wickets.

“Wish @REALsaeedajmal can modify his bowling action n get back with a bang. biggest asset of Pakistan cricket. all prayers wd him,” read a tweet from Pakistan pacer Umar Gul.

Former Pakistan and Sri Lanka coach Dav Whatmore expressed his surprise over Ajmal’s off-spin deliveries being deemed illegal as well.

“Sad to hear of Ajmal’s ban… I can possibly understand the doosra but offbreaks? I hope he can correct his actions in time for CWC’15,” tweeted Whatmore.

“Wow – Ajmal banned! Never nice to see fellow professionals going through a tough time…hopefully he’s back soon!,” tweeted explosive English batsman Kevin Pietersen.

Dean Jones, a former Australia batsman, went on to question ICC’s decision.

“Make no mistake that bowling a Doosra and reverse swing are brilliant skills… Do we want the Doosra banned?,” he tweeted.

Ajmal, who was reported after the first Test match against Sri Lanka in Galle last month, can apply for a re-assessment after he has modified his bowling action in accordance with clause 2.4 of the Regulations for the Review of Bowlers Reported with Suspected Illegal Bowling Actions.

(IANS)