The beginning of 2025 has been nothing short of unforgettable for Matt Kuhnemann. What started as a period of uncertainty–with fears that a broken thumb might derail his chances of a Test recall–soon turned into a triumphant chapter in his career. He bowled Australia to victory in Sri Lanka, only to have his bowling action reported soon after, as per ESPNcricinfo.
Melbourne [Australia] April 2, (ANI): The beginning of 2025 has been nothing short of unforgettable for Matt Kuhnemann. What started as a period of uncertainty–with fears that a broken thumb might derail his chances of a Test recall–soon turned into a triumphant chapter in his career. He bowled Australia to victory in Sri Lanka, only to have his bowling action reported soon after, as per ESPNcricinfo.
However, Kuhnemann successfully navigated the ICC’s scrutiny, cleared his action, and finished the season on a high with a five-wicket haul. His impressive performances have now earned him his maiden central contract, solidifying his position as Australia’s No. 2 red-ball spinner behind Nathan Lyon.
The left-arm spinner played a pivotal role in the two-Test series against Sri Lanka, claiming 16 wickets and taking his overall tally to 25 wickets in five matches at an average of 22.20.
Kuhnemann is set to tour the West Indies in June, where he is expected to feature alongside Lyon in some of the Tests, depending on the pitch conditions in Barbados, Grenada, and Jamaica.
“He’s shown an incredible amount of resilience,” chair of selectors George Bailey said, according to ESPNcricinfo.
“Looking at what’s coming up, we don’t have any subcontinent tours but we think his skill set could be useful in the West Indies. Someone who’s not had a whole heap of international exposure, we’ve been really pleased with the way he’s performed when he’s got his opportunities,” he added.
Lyon said he is happy it’s all cleared. “It’s all done and doesn’t need to be spoken about any more. He hasn’t done anything wrong. I thought he’s been absolutely exceptional, especially the way he went out there and really bowled us to victory,” he said, according to ESPNcricinfo.