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Despite all the success and outstanding performances of Muttiah Muralitharan, people still question his bowling action and whether it is legal or not.
From the start, Australians were against Muttiah Muralitharan's bowling movements. He is probably the only wrist-off spinner to face various difficulties due to the deformity in his hand.
Even though the controversies covered his career regarding his bowling action, Muttiah Muralitharan faced everything strongly and managed to emerge from all of it to be at the top of the bowling chart.
Boxing-day Test Match, Australia
In 1995, Darrell Hair, the Australian Umpire, called a no-ball for Muttiah Muralitharan's bowling movement. The same thing occurred in the ODI series, and at this time, it was Ross Emerson, the umpire, who called no-ball.
Biomechanical Test
In 1996, Murali underwent a biochemical test, and then it was revealed that his action was legal due to citing a congenital disability in his arm, making him incapable of completely straightening it.
1998 Australia
When Sri Lanka toured Australia in 1998, the same issue came up again when Ross Emerson called a no-ball again for Muttiah Muralitharan's movement. Yet again, Murali was sent for more tests in England and Perth, and he cleared all of them again.
Australia 2004
Murali's doosra against Australia was doubted in 2004 by Chris Broad, the match referee. However, after much analysis and research, ICC declared Murali's doosra legal.
Many players from different teams, such as Australia, West Indies, India, South Africa, and many more, said that Muttiah Muralitharan was the best player that they have played against. Many players agreed that he is an immensely skilful and a champion bowler.
A lot of players also said that he gave them quite a hard time and sleepless nights, but in the end, they agreed that he is one of the best ones.
All of Muttiah Muralitharan's teammates praised him and his impressive bowling skills. Sanath Jayasuriya, former Sri Lankan cricketer, said that he had a great record being the captain due to Murali's outstanding throughout the years.
Many of his teammates said that Muttiah Muralitharan could confuse batsmen, leading him to win many matches.
One of the major reasons for Muttiah Muralitharan's success is his team support. His team helped and supported him throughout all the controversies and never backed down. Perhaps Murali would not succeed much if it wasn't for his country and teammates.
FAQs
What tests did Murali undergo to prove that his action was legal?
Murali underwent a biomechanical test in 1996 and was sent for more tests in England and Perth in 1998 and 2004 to prove his action was legal.
What did other teams have to say about Muttiah Muralitharan?
Other teams from around the world praised Muttiah Muralitharan as a skilful and champion bowler who gave them quite a hard time.
What was the main reason for Muttiah Muralitharan's success?
The main reason for Muttiah Muralitharan's success was the support of his team and country.
