Pak spinner Usman Tariq’s bowling action sparks fresh debate

Controversy over suspect bowling actions is nothing new in cricket, often leaving batters perplexed. The latest talking point involves Pakistan off-spinner Usman Tariq and Australia all-rounder Cameron Green.

In the first T20I played in Lahore on Saturday (31 January), Pakistan posted 198 for 5 after being asked to bat. Australia were bowled out for 108 in 15.4 overs, losing by 90 runs.

Tariq bowled 2.4 overs, conceding 16 runs and taking 2 wickets. The fifth ball of his 11th over accounted for Green, who miscued a big shot and was caught at point. As he walked back, Green clearly appeared confused by Tariq’s release point. On his way to the dugout, he mimicked the action, and continued to demonstrate it to the Australian coaching staff, hinting at a possible chucking concern.

This is not the first time Tariq’s action has come under scrutiny. He was reported twice previously during the Pakistan Super League while playing for Quetta Gladiators. On both occasions, umpires flagged his action, leading to biomechanical testing at the Lahore Cricket Academy. The 28-year-old passed the tests and was cleared to continue bowling.

According to ICC regulations, an elbow bend exceeding 15 degrees at the point of delivery is considered illegal. However, congenital or natural elbow flexions are exempt from this limit.

Tariq has consistently defended his action, insisting the bend is natural. He previously stated: “Because of the structure of my elbow, there is a visible bend in my arm, which has been proven legal in testing.”

A similar suspicion arose during the ILT20 recently, but Tariq dismissed it as uninformed criticism.

To date, Tariq has played three international T20Is for Pakistan, claiming 8 wickets. Across his 41-match T20 career, he has taken 67 wickets at an economy rate of 6.79.