Who is Usman Tariq? All you need to know about Pakistan mystery spinner who is being protected for IND vs PAK clash

Usman Tariq was left out of the Pakistan XI for first T20I against Australia.

Usman Tariq, a 28-year-old Pakistani off-spinner, has emerged as a mystery weapon in limited-overs cricket, known for his unconventional bowling action and impressive wicket-taking ability. Born in Lahore, Tariq transitioned from fast bowling to spin early in his career, making his T20 debut in 2023 for Lahore Qalandars in the Pakistan Super League (PSL).

He has since played for Quetta Gladiators in PSL 2025, where he played a pivotal role in their run to the final, and starred for Trinbago Knight Riders in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL), claiming 20 wickets in 10 games to help them clinch the title.

Internationally, Tariq has featured in just two T20Is for Pakistan, notably taking a hat-trick against Zimbabwe in a tri-series in November 2025, finishing with figures of 4/18. His deceptive variations and ability to exploit subcontinental pitches earned him a spot in Pakistan’s 15-member squad for the ICC T20 World Cup 2026, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka starting February 7.

Usman Tariq and his chucking controversy

However, Tariq’s rise has been overshadowed by persistent allegations of chucking, which is an illegal bowling action where the elbow straightens beyond the ICC’s 15-degree limit. His unique style involves a smooth run-up followed by a dramatic pause at the crease, where he crouches low on his knees before releasing the ball from a side-arm angle.

This has drawn scrutiny, with critics arguing it creates an unnatural elbow flexion. Tariq was first reported for a suspect action during PSL 2024 and again in PSL 2025, undergoing biomechanical testing at the National Cricket Academy in Lahore both times. He was cleared on each occasion, with results showing compliance within ICC parameters.

In the ILT20 league in December 2025, England’s Tom Banton accused him of “throwing” after being dismissed, reigniting debates. Tariq hit back, calling critics “illiterate” and emphasising his clearances: “Illiteracy can kill knowledge… I’ve been tested twice and cleared.”

Former Pakistan all-rounder Mohammad Hafeez defended him, explaining the pause might create an optical illusion but isn’t illegal, attributing doubts to unfamiliarity with his technique.

Is Pakistan preparing to use Usman Tariq as a weapon against India?

The controversy escalated recently when Usman Tariq was omitted from Pakistan’s playing XI in the first T20I against Australia on January 29, 2026, despite being fit.

Netizens and analysts speculate this is a deliberate strategy by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to “protect” him from a third report, which could trigger an immediate suspension and require ICC-accredited lab clearance, potentially sidelining him for the T20 World Cup 2026.

With Pakistan’s high-stakes clash against India scheduled for February 15 in Colombo, where spin will be crucial, many believe the PCB is shielding Tariq as a secret weapon to unsettle India’s batters. Former players like Inzamam-ul-Haq have indirectly fuelled such talks by highlighting past inconsistencies in ICC enforcement.

If reported again, Tariq risks a ban under ICC regulations, which mandate independent assessment within 14 days. As the T20 World Cup approaches, Tariq’s case highlights ongoing debates on bowling actions in cricket.

Given Pakistan’s poor recent record against India, it comes as little surprise that the team appears willing to resort to questionable and unsporting measures, even at the expense of one of their own players, in an attempt to avoid yet another embarrassment against their arch-rivals.

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