Is Usman Tariq’s Bowling Action Legal? The Science Behind the Mystery Spinner’s “Pause and Sling”
The T20 World Cup 2026 has found its biggest talking point, and it’s not a monstrous six or a hat-trick. Instead, it’s the bizarre, stuttering bowling action of Pakistan’s mystery spinner, Usman Tariq. After his match-winning performance against the USA and a high-voltage clash against India in Colombo, the cricketing world is divided: Is it a unique skill, or is it “chucking”?
The Controversy: Why Fans are Questioning the Action
Usman Tariq’s action is unlike anything seen in modern cricket. He approaches the crease with a diagonal run-up, followed by a dramatic, statue-like pause before releasing the ball with a side-arm, slingy motion.
Critics, including former Indian cricketer Shreevats Goswami, have compared the pause to a football penalty run-up, which was eventually banned by FIFA for being too deceptive. However, in cricket, the rules are different.
The 15-Degree Rule: Is He Within the Limits?
According to ICC Regulation 11.1, a bowling action is illegal if the player’s elbow extends by more than 15 degrees between the time the arm reaches the horizontal level and the moment of release.
While social media is flooded with screenshots claiming Tariq “chucks” the ball, the reality is more complex:
- Biological Condition: Tariq has openly stated he has a hypermobile (double-jointed) elbow. Much like Muttiah Muralitharan or Jasprit Bumrah, his arm appears bent even when it is technically straight.
- Official Clearance: Tariq has been reported for a suspect action twice in the past (during the PSL and bilateral series). On both occasions, he underwent biomechanical testing at ICC-accredited labs and was officially cleared.
The “Pause” at the Crease: Legal or Not?
The most frustrating part for batters isn’t just the arm—it’s the timing.
- The Rule: A pause is legal as long as it is part of the bowler’s natural, consistent rhythm.
- The Support: Indian spin legend R. Ashwin has defended Tariq, stating that if the pause is his regular action, it is entirely legal. Ashwin even challenged batters to “pull out” of the delivery if they found the pause too long, highlighting a fascinating grey area in the MCC Laws of Cricket.
Conclusion: Trump Card or Liability?
Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha has labeled Tariq as the team’s “Trump Card” for the T20 World Cup 2026. Despite the “outside noise” and mockery from players like Australia’s Cameron Green, Tariq remains eligible to bowl.
Until an on-field umpire officially reports him during the World Cup and a lab test proves otherwise, Usman Tariq’s action is 100% legal.
