Kelis Ndhlovu, the 19-year-old left-arm spinner from the Zimbabwe women’s national team, has been suspended from bowling in international cricket with immediate effect after her action was found to be illegal under ICC regulations.
Assessment confirms illegal bowling action
The suspension follows an independent assessment conducted in Pretoria, South Africa, which confirmed that Ndhlovu’s bowling action does not conform to the permissible parameters outlined by the ICC Bowling Regulations.
Ndhlovu was originally reported by match officials during the first ODI against Ireland in Belfast on 26 July 2025.
Suspension enforced under ICC Article 6.1
According to Article 6.1 of the ICC Bowling Regulations, the suspension will remain in effect until she undergoes a re-assessment of her bowling action and demonstrates that her revised action is legal.
The ICC rule states: “A player reported and subsequently found to have an illegal action will be suspended from bowling in international cricket until they pass a re-assessment confirming compliance with the regulations.”
What comes next for Ndhlovu?
Ndhlovu is eligible to continue playing as a batter or fielder during her suspension but cannot bowl in any form of international cricket until she successfully completes the re-assessment process.
The suspension does not apply to domestic cricket unless specifically enforced by Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC) or the domestic competition’s governing body.
This development marks a setback for one of Zimbabwe’s most promising young talents, who had been gaining attention for her performances in recent bilateral series.
