'Tariq's bowling action is entirely legal'; former Indian star R Ashwin backs Pak cricketer

COLOMBO: A controversy has erupted over the bowling action of Pakistan cricketer Usman Tariq at the ongoing T20 World Cup. Tariq made his World Cup debut in the match against the USA on Monday. Although he took 3 wickets and helped his team secure a win, his unusual bowling action soon sparked discussions on social media and in the cricket world. Now, amidst the controversy, former Indian cricketer R Ashwin has come forward defending Tariq's bowling action.

Unlike most spinners, Tariq bends his elbow and pauses in an unusual way during his run-up. Earlier, Australian cricketer Cameron Green had also questioned Tariq’s bowling action. Former Indian cricketer Shreevats Goswami said on X that just as footballers are not allowed to stop during penalty kicks, such bowling actions should not be allowed in cricket either.

Responding to Goswami’s post, former Indian spinner R. Ashwin came out in support of Tariq. Ashwin questioned why bowlers face so many restrictions. He pointed out that batters can play switch hits and reverse sweeps without informing the bowler or the umpire. But if a bowler wants to change his bowling arm, he must inform the umpires in advance. Ashwin said such discrimination in the rules should be addressed first.

Ashwin also added that it is impossible for on-field umpires to accurately judge whether a bowler’s elbow is bending more than 15 degrees. He suggested that live technology should be used to make such decisions. He said Tariq’s bowling action is natural and that he is not doing anything illegal.

Earlier, Tariq had faced similar complaints during the Pakistan Super League (PSL), but he was cleared after testing. Former international umpire Anil Chaudhary has also confirmed that Tariq’s bowling action follows ICC rules.