Rijke suspended from bowling due to illegal action

The Netherlands, who have had a disastrous Qualifiers campaign on home soil, now face another pressing issue. Their opening bowler, Robine Rijke has been suspended from bowling in international cricket due to an illegal bowling action, effective immediately. After the Netherlands six-wicket defeat against UAE, the 21-year old's bowling action was reported by the match officials.



In accordance with Article 3.6.2 of ICC Illegal Bowling Regulations, Rijke’s bowling action was filmed in the following match, against Bangladesh. The video of her bowling was then given to the Event Panel of Mark King and Richard Done, who were to examine and evaluate it.



Having reviewed the footage, the Event Panel came to the conclusion that Rijke’s bowling action was indeed illegal. Hence, according to Article 6.7 of the regulations, she has been suspended from bowling in international cricket, effective immediately.  Her suspension will remain until her bowling action is judged at an ICC approved Testing Centre and the judgment says that her bowling action has been fixed and is legal.



The pacer opens the bowling for the Netherlands. She has not yet taken any wickets for her side in the Qualifiers but has been economical considering she bowls during the powerplay and in the death. Her average economy rate, in the tournament, has been 4.33. Regarded as an all-rounder, Rijke comes in to bat at number four, but has not impressed with the bat either, her top score of the tournament being 7.



The Netherlands have already lost two of their three group stage matches meaning they will not be going further in the tournament. However, they do have one final opportunity to prove themselves. Their last match is on Tuesday, against Papua New Guinea at the VRA Cricket Ground in Amstelveen. Will the hosts manage to win their last match? Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure, having to replace their opening bowler will not make things any easier for them.