Pakistan’s mystery spinner Usman Tariq has once again found himself in the spotlight after his unusual bowling action sparked a fresh controversy during the ICC T20 World Cup 2026. The 28-year-old delivered a match-winning spell of 3/27 against USA in Colombo, but soon after the game, social media was flooded with allegations of illegal bowling (chucking).
Despite the growing debate, there has been no official report from the ICC or match referee so far. However, the issue has once again brought his unique action under intense scrutiny ahead of Pakistan’s crucial upcoming matches.
What Makes Usman Tariq Action Unusual?
Usman Tariq’s bowling style is very different from traditional off-spinners. His short run-up, diagonal approach, visible elbow bend, and a noticeable pause before release have often caught the attention of fans and experts.
"Look, I'm worried about Pakistan's image for inclusion of someone like Usman Tariq. Let's be honest, his action is suspect, and it will keep attracting allegations of chucking. And given our history with chucking, why is Pakistan management playing him?"
— Brutal Truth (@sarkarstix) February 10, 2026
~Wasim Akram on air pic.twitter.com/YFTe4O3TFf
The spinner has previously explained that he has a double-jointed elbow, which naturally prevents his arm from appearing fully straight. According to him, his action remains within the ICC’s legal limit.
Key Features of His Bowling Action
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Run-up | Short and diagonal approach |
| Delivery pause | Brief pause before release |
| Arm position | Visible bend due to double-jointed elbow |
| Release style | Sling-like action similar to low-arm release |
| ICC limit claim | Within 15-degree elbow extension rule |
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Was Usman Tariq’s Bowling Action Officially Reported?
As of now, Usman Tariq’s bowling action has NOT been officially reported during the T20 World Cup 2026.
Under ICC rules, on-field umpires can report a suspect action to the match referee. The bowler is then required to undergo a biomechanical test at an ICC-approved lab. Only if the elbow extension exceeds 15 degrees is the action declared illegal.
So far in the ongoing tournament, no such report has been filed, and Tariq is eligible to continue bowling.
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Past Controversies Around His Action
This is not the first time Tariq’s action has come under the scanner. The spinner has faced similar concerns in domestic and international cricket over the last two years.
Timeline of Previous Incidents
| Year/Series | Incident | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| PSL 2024 | Action reported as suspect | Cleared after PCB lab testing |
| PSL 2025 | Reported again | Passed biomechanical assessment |
| AUS vs PAK Series | Cameron Green mimicked action after dismissal | Later apologized |
| T20 WC 2026 | Social media allegations after USA match | No official ICC report |
Expert Opinions Divided
The latest controversy has also divided opinions within the cricket community.
- Former India cricketer Shreevats Goswami suggested that Tariq’s stock delivery looks fine but questioned the elbow position during quicker variations.
- Spin legend Muttiah Muralitharan reportedly took a strict stand, calling for ICC to review the action.
- On the other hand, Ravichandran Ashwin defended the bowler, stating that only laboratory testing can determine legality and on-field judgment of elbow angle is extremely difficult.
Usman Tariq Responds to the Criticism
The Pakistan spinner has maintained that his action is natural and already tested in the past. He reiterated that his elbow condition is physical and not an attempt to gain unfair advantage.
Tariq also expressed confidence ahead of the high-pressure matches, stating that opponents are focusing on his action because of the threat he poses with the ball.
What ICC Rules Say About Bowling Actions
According to ICC regulations:
- The elbow extension from horizontal to release must not exceed 15 degrees.
- If reported, the bowler must undergo biomechanical testing within a specified period.
- If cleared, the bowler can continue. If not, the player must remodel the action or face suspension.
Since Tariq has previously passed testing and no new report has been made, he remains legally cleared to play.
With Pakistan set to play key matches in the tournament, including high-intensity contests, the debate around Usman Tariq’s action is expected to stay in the headlines. Whether the controversy fades or escalates will depend on future performances and any official review.
For now, the mystery spinner remains one of Pakistan’s biggest weapons — and one of the most talked-about bowlers of the T20 World Cup 2026.
