Usman Tariq Hits Back at Players Who Question His Bowling Action

Pakistan spinner Usman Tariq has criticised opponents who publicly question his bowling action, insisting that the judgement belongs to officials rather than fellow players.

Latest flashpoint in The Hundred

Tariq’s action has long drawn attention, particularly the pause in his delivery stride and the apparent bend in his arm at release. The most recent episode came in the 2026 Men’s Hundred, when he played for Birmingham Phoenix against Trent Rockets and dismissed Australia’s Tim David. David then gestured towards the umpires, seemingly querying the legality of the delivery.

Tom Banton and Cameron Green have previously made throwing gestures during games involving Tariq.

Tariq’s response

Speaking on the Beard Before Wicket Podcast, Tariq said such behaviour reflects a player’s character and that pointing out an action is not a player’s responsibility. He normally ignores these incidents, he said, but felt he had to respond when Banton did it right in front of him.

He argued that on-field umpires and match officials alone have the authority to question an action, and that professionals should know the laws and represent the sport positively rather than add negativity.

Testing and a medical explanation

Tariq has been reported twice for a suspected illegal action in the Pakistan Super League. On both occasions he passed biomechanical testing at a PCB-accredited laboratory in Lahore. He has also said he has a genetic condition affecting his elbows that limits how far his arm can straighten, which he believes explains the misconceptions.

Having been cleared through official testing, Tariq remains eligible to bowl and says he is focused on letting his performances speak.