Zimbabwe Women’s Cricket Faces Setback as Kelis Ndhlovu Suspended from Bowling

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 her suspension following an independent assessment that deemed her bowling action illegal.

Ndhlovu, a left-arm spinner and one of Zimbabwe’s most promising talents, was reported during the first ODI against Ireland on July 26, 2025, in Belfast. She underwent a biomechanics test in Pretoria, South Africa, where analysts found her bowling action exceeded ICC regulations.

Under Article 6.1 of the ICC Bowling Regulations, Ndhlovu will remain suspended until she remodels her action and passes a re-assessment. The ICC stated she may return to bowling once another independent review confirms her action is legal.

Since making her senior debut, Ndhlovu has been a key player for Zimbabwe. She has played 13 ODIs, scoring 192 runs and taking 19 wickets, and featured in 51 T20Is, accumulating 822 runs and claiming 44 wickets. She also captained Zimbabwe’s U19 team at the inaugural ICC Women’s Under-19 T20 World Cup in 2023.

Her suspension leaves a significant gap in the Zimbabwe Women’s squad. Ndhlovu’s all-round abilities have made her one of the team’s most dependable performers, contributing in both batting and bowling departments.

The Zimbabwe Cricket team will need to adjust its strategy while Ndhlovu works on her bowling action, with hopes she can return to full fitness and regain her role in the squad.