Australia’s breakout spinner Matt Kuhnemann has been reported for a suspect bowling action during his starring role in Australia’s 2-0 series sweep of Sri Lanka.

Cricket Australia confirmed on Wednesday that International Cricket Council match officials cited Kuhnemann over his action after the second Test in Galle.

The left-arm spinner was the leading wicket-taker in Sri Lanka with 16 at an average of 17.18, after overcoming a thumb injury to play in the two-Test series, but will now have to prove the legality of his bowling action.

Under ICC rules, players are allowed up to 15 degrees of flex in their bowling arm each time they deliver the ball.

“The Australian team was notified of the match officials’ referral following the second Test against Sri Lanka in Galle and will support Matt through the process of clearing this matter,” Cricket Australia said in a statement.

“Matt has played 124 professional matches since his debut in 2017, including five Test matches and four one-day internationals. He has played 55 Big Bash League games since 2018. This is the first time in those eight years of professional cricket that his action [has] been questioned.

“Cricket Australia will liaise closely with the ICC and independent experts in line with ICC regulations. No further comment will be made by Cricket Australia or Matthew until the matter is resolved.”

Kuhnemann made his Test debut in India in 2023 but is now unable to play international cricket under the ICC umbrella until his bowling action is cleared by independent experts.

The 28-year is not in Australia’s squad for two ODIs in Sri Lanka starting on Wednesday or the Champions Trophy later this month, and last played a white-ball international in 2022.

Kuhnemann can continue to play for Tasmania in the Sheffield Shield and aim to add to his 18 wickets in six first-class matches this season.