Conrad backs Subrayen, opts to keep spinner out of spotlight

Prenelan Subrayen’s long-awaited ODI debut could end in heartbreak after the Proteas off-spinner was reported for a suspect bowling action during South Africa’s victory over Australia on Tuesday. The 31-year-old, who finally broke into the national side after years of persistence, now faces an anxious wait for ICC testing that will determine his international future.

While Subrayen remains eligible for selection until the outcome of his test results next week at an ICC facility, Proteas head coach Shukri Conrad confirmed that the team would keep him out of the spotlight for now.

Conrad explained that Subrayen had been reported for 12 deliveries during the match, which South Africa won handsomely by 98 runs. The spinner claimed the key wicket of Travis Head and finished with figures of 1/46 on debut.

Under ICC bowling regulations, a bowler’s arm may flex a maximum of 15°; anything beyond that is considered illegal. Subrayen will now undergo testing in Brisbane, where he will need to replicate the deliveries under scrutiny. Bowling coach Piet Botha will accompany him for the process.

“Hopefully, we can get that done sooner rather than later,” Conrad said.

"That is the process from here on out. He is still available to play. You are allowed to play until the test, but we just felt, together with Subs, that there will be less noise. Just get him out of the public eye and make sure that he is okay and focused on testing

“That is why his name is not going to be on the team sheet tomorrow. He is doing alright.

"He’s gone through this process before, I’m not sure how long ago. But it's never easy because he’s waited this long to make his debut and he’s been playing well. I think next week will reveal a lot.”

The Proteas still have match-winning spinner Keshav Maharaj in their attack but continue to be without paceman Kagiso Rabada, who has been sidelined through injury. They face the Australians in the second ODI on Friday (start 6.30pm).