Ex-Umpire Gives Final Verdict on Pakistan Spinner Usman Tariq’s Controversial Bowling Action

In three T20Is for Pakistan, Usman Tariq has claimed eight wickets at a 7.5 average, notably securing a hat-trick during a match against Zimbabwe.

Ex-Umpire Gives Final Verdict on Pakistan Spinner Usman Tariq’s Controversial Bowling Action

Former umpire Anil Chaudhary exclaimed that Pakistan's Usman Tariq has a 'legal' bowling action. (via Inside Sport)

The controversy over Pakistan spinner Usman Tariq‘s bowling action has been running long, and it most recently came under the scanner during the team’s T20I series against Australia. Interestingly, Tariq’s bowling action has been given a clean chit by former umpire Anil Chaudhary.

Usman Tariq‘s round-arm sling, slow run-up, and a unique release point are enough to deceive batters. The 28-year-old rose to fame after an impressive campaign with Trinbago Knight Riders in CPL 2025, but has faced scrutiny on the international stage. His action was reported twice for suspicion by on-field umpires during the last two PSL seasons, but he was tested and cleared by authorities on both occasions.

The off-spinner reasoned that the bend in his bowling arm is the result of a biological condition, which prevents him from straightening the arm at will. While international umpires are yet to report a suspected bowling action, Usman Tariq has repeatedly been accused of ‘chucking’.

The scrutiny intensified after the 28-year-old was mocked by Australian Cameron Green, who made a series of gestures to accuse Tariq of ‘throwing’ the ball after losing his wicket to the spinner.

With Usman Tariq’s bowling action expected to be under close observation at the 2026 T20 World Cup, Anil Chaudhary addressed the issue. After reviewing footage, the former cricket umpire acknowledged the 28-year-old’s bowling action as ‘unconventional’. Chaudhary, however, clarified that the Pakistani spinner’s side-on action and brief pause before delivering the ball is what makes his bowling motion seem unacceptable to many.

Anil Chaudhary further highlighted the consistency in the way Usman Tariq delivers the ball, concluding that his action is entirely ‘legal’. The former ICC umpire added that the Pakistani bowler does not bend his arm while bowling, and that the elbow extension does not exceed the 15-degree mark during the stride.

Not only was Tariq backed by the Indian umpire, but he also received support from retired Australian icon Usman Khawaja, who talked about the emotional toll of the allegations. Chaudhary said on social media:

I have received a video regarding Usman Tariq’s bowling action… Since he delivers all his balls in the same manner, and in his arm there is no bending and straightening as per the guidelines, the action is absolutely fine.

Nonetheless, Usman Tariq will next be seen in action when Pakistan take on the Netherlands in their first-group stage fixture at the T20 WC on February 7. Surprisingly, Pakistan will not face India in the tournament after announcing a boycott.

Spinner Usman Tariq expected to be a part of Pakistan’s T20 World Cup playing XI despite controversy 

Usman Tariq will definitely headline Pakistan’s spin attack at the upcoming 2026 T20 World Cup, despite his bowling action being at the center of controversy. Apart from the 28-year-old, several new and old faces have also been predicted to be a part of Pakistan’s playing XI. 

Usman Tariq Pakistan XI
Usman Tariq is expected to make it to Pakistan’s playing XI at the 2026 T20 World Cup. (via Indian Express)

With Pakistan having already announced that they would not take the field against India in the group stages of the T20 WC, the Men in Green would therefore have to ensure that they secure all six points from the remaining three fixtures. Pakistan has been placed in Group A, alongside co-hosts India, the Netherlands, Namibia, and the USA, who defeated them in the 2024 WC in a thrilling Super Over contest. 

This time however, Pakistan look strong, having most recently come off a remarkable 3-0 series triumph over Australia. Coming to their XI, Sahibzada Farhan and Saim Ayub are expected to retain their position as openers. Veteran batter Babar Azam will bat at no.3, followed by captain Salman Ali Agha, Usman Khan and Fakhar Zaman. All-rounders Shadab Khan and Faheem Ashraf complete the batting unit. 

Shaheen Afridi is expected to lead the pace attack, with Naseem Shah joining him at times. Head coach Mike Hesson might pick two frontline spinners, Usman Tariq and Abrar Ahmed, given the fact that the team will play its matches on the turning tracks in Sri Lanka.  

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