Kelis Ndhlovu Banned from Bowling in International...

Kelis Ndhlovu Banned from Bowling in International Cricket

Zim Now Writer

Zimbabwe women’s cricket has suffered a major blow after 19-year-old all-rounder Kelis Ndhlovu was barred from bowling in international matches.

The International Cricket Council confirmed the suspension following an independent assessment that ruled her bowling action illegal.

Ndhlovu, a left-arm spinner and one of Zimbabwe’s brightest young talents, was reported by match officials during the first ODI against Ireland on July 26, 2025, in Belfast.

She later underwent a biomechanics test in Pretoria, South Africa, where analysts found her bowling action to exceed the limits allowed under ICC regulations.

In line with Article 6.1 of the ICC Bowling Regulations, she will remain suspended until she remodels her action and successfully passes a re-assessment.

Ndhlovu has been an integral figure for Zimbabwe since breaking into the national side. To date, she has featured in 13 ODIs—scoring 192 runs and claiming 19 wickets—and in 51 T20Is, where she has amassed 822 runs and taken 44 wickets.

Beyond her senior career, she also captained the Zimbabwe U19 team at the inaugural ICC Women’s Under-19 T20 World Cup in 2023.

Her suspension leaves a gap in the Zimbabwe Women’s squad, as her ability to contribute with both bat and ball has made her one of the team’s most reliable performers.

The ICC stressed that she may return to bowling once her action is deemed legal through another independent review.