Quetta Gladiators spinner Usman Tariq has clarified his on-field interaction with Daryl Mitchell after confusion arose over his bowling action during a Pakistan Super League (PSL 11) match at the National Bank Stadium.
Speaking during a PSL Pitch Side segment, Tariq explained that the discussion began when Mitchell stepped away while facing him. Tariq said he asked what the issue was, to which Mitchell responded that there was a noticeable pause in his action. Tariq replied that varying pauses are within his rhythm, but the situation was later clarified to Mitchell that Tariq’s action complies with the laws.
The moment occurred during the ninth over of the chase, when Tariq’s delivery style—featuring a brief pause—appeared to disrupt Mitchell’s timing. The batter stepped out of the crease twice, struggling to adjust, before the umpire intervened and cleared up the misunderstanding.
Tariq’s bowling action has been questioned previously. Earlier this year, during a T20I against Australia, Cameron Green reacted with frustration after being dismissed by Tariq, making a gesture that hinted at concerns over a possible illegal action. A similar situation took place in last year’s ILT20, when Tom Banton appeared to question the legality of Tariq’s delivery during a qualifier.
Addressing the criticism, Tariq said his unique arm structure makes his action look unusual, explaining that the shape of his elbow prevents full straightening. He emphasized that bowlers reported for suspect actions undergo testing, and confirmed that he has already been assessed twice in Pakistan and cleared on both occasions.
He added that, unlike some others, he did not need to modify his action after testing and remains confident in its legality. Tariq has been reported twice in his career but was cleared each time, including approval from an ICC-accredited biomechanics lab after delivering 24 balls under controlled testing conditions.
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