Tim Paine, former Australian cricket captain, has defended Matt Kuhnemann after the spinner was reported for a suspected illegal bowling action. Not only that, he compared Kuhnemann’s bowling action to that of the Indian star pacer Jasprit Bumrah. Speaking on SEN Radio, Paine expressed his concern for the mental toll this issue would have on Kuhnemann for facing a public challenge just after a successful series against Sri Lanka. Paine said, “I think there’s a bit of flexion, not dissimilar to a Jasprit Bumrah. I think he’d be flat as a tack I’d imagine. In cricket, being accused of throwing is not a great mark to have against your name. You’re being accused in a way, of cheating. I imagine in such a public forum, that would be very hard for him to deal with that. He’s probably walked off that day on top of the world, and by the time he’s back in the hotel room he’s at absolute rock bottom because he’s fighting, if you like, to save his career." Paine further criticized the officials for targeting Kuhnemann. He argued that some other bowlers with even worse actions had not faced similar scrutiny. Paine added, “I just don’t get it. Go back through the history of cricket and we’ve had guys who have played hundreds of Test matches combined who have (much worse actions) than Matthew Kuhnemann. I feel like it’s a bit of a token ‘we’ll look like we’re policing this, even though we have never before,’ and Kuhnemann has been the unlucky one." Read also: Pakistan Omits India's Flag at Karachi Stadium Before Champions Trophy Allegations Over Kuhnemann’s Bowling Action Matt Kuhnemann is under investigation for a suspected illegal bowling action after being reported during Australia’s series in Sri Lanka. His action is being assessed to determine whether it exceeds the 15-degree arm flexion limit set by the ICC. If found illegal, Kuhnemann will be suspended from international cricket until he adjusts his action. Kuhnemann claimed 16 wickets in the Sri Lanka series, outshining Nathan Lyon. Despite this, the allegations jeopardize his career. Cricket Australia has supported him, noting that this is the first time his action has been questioned in his eight-year career. Currently, Kuhnemann is suspended from international cricket but can play in domestic competitions. Australia hopes he passes biomechanical tests ahead of the June series against South Africa.