Harbhajan confident of clearing tests

Ace Indian off-spinner Harbhajan Singh said he had not stopped bowling the 'doosra' despite the delivery being reported as suspect and was confident of coming out clean in the tests.

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Harbhajan said he had not changed his bowling action since being reported during the second Test in Chittagong against Bangladesh and he had bowled the 'doosra', the delivery that moves way from right handers, in the first one-dayer at the same venue later.

"I have not stopped bowling my 'doosra'. I have been bowling as I have done before," said the spinner.

"Anyway, I have been reported and I cannot be reported again (for the next six weeks)."

Under ICC regulations, Harbhajan would have to work with an ICC-approved bio-mechanic expert for corrective measures on his action within six weeks, and he cannot be reported again during that period.

Harbhajan seemed to draw hope from the fact that the intense debate on the issue of suspect bowling would find a way out for him too.

"I am not worried at all. I am confident there is nothing wrong with my action," he said.

"Every Test bowler is now being tested, even fast bowlers like Glenn McGrath and others. It has become routine. I have taken 300-plus wickets in international cricket. I am confident that the tests will prove there is nothing wrong with my action.

"If it is found that I have to make some changes, I will do so. But I don't think there will be a need for any change
in my action," Harbhajan said.

When asked if he saw any pattern in the bowlers from the subcontinent being reported, Harbhajan said, "I don't know. We all bowl the 'doosra', and not many bowlers from the other countries bowl it.

"The ICC is conductings tests, so let us wait and see. They talk of 15 degrees... Hopefully I will be cleared," he said referring to the suggestion by the ICC's Cricket Committee that all bowlers be allowed to straighten their arm upto 15 degrees.

When pointed out that the latest suggestion was yet to be ratified and made a law, the 'Turbanator' said, "yes, they are still discussing. Hopefully they will implement it."

Harbhajan was reported for suspect action in 1998 also, I didn't know what to do and was tense. But the Cricket Board supported me, I went to England and came back.

"This time I am confident. The team is behind me, all of India is with me. By the grace of God, I will comeback again."