Usman Tariq: Pakistan’s Mystery Spinner Tackles ‘Chucking’ Claims and Eyes T20 Glory
As the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 approaches, Usman Tariq has become a focal point for the Pakistan cricket team. The 28-year-old mystery spinner is expected to play a key role in critical matches, especially the highly anticipated clash with India.
Usman Tariq: The Spinner with a Unique Journey
Born on January 1, 1998, in Pakistan, Usman Tariq’s pathway to the national team is remarkable. He previously worked as a salesman in Dubai but left his job to chase his cricketing dreams after being inspired by the biopic of MS Dhoni. Transitioning from a fast bowler to a right-arm off-spinner, he developed a unique delivery style. His “baseball-style” action features a smooth run-up and a deceptive pause before delivery.
Challenging the ‘Chucking’ Claims
Tariq’s unconventional bowling action has faced scrutiny, with some critics labeling him a “certified chucker.” His action was flagged during the Pakistan Super League (PSL) in 2024 and again in 2025. However, both the ICC and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) have cleared him of any wrongdoing.
- Tariq claims the apparent bend in his arm is due to a natural anatomical trait.
- Rigorous biomechanical testing at the National Cricket Academy in Lahore confirmed his action is within the legal 15-degree limit.
A Breakthrough Performance
Usman Tariq made headlines during the 2025 T20I tri-series against Zimbabwe, where he claimed a hat-trick, achieving match figures of 4/18. This performance made him one of only four Pakistani bowlers to record a T20I hat-trick, joining notable names like Faheem Ashraf and Mohammad Nawaz.
Dominance in T20 Leagues
His impressive performance extends to various T20 leagues. In the Caribbean Premier League (CPL), he took 20 wickets in 10 matches, further establishing his reputation as a formidable wicket-taker. His overall stats highlight his impact in the format:
| Format | Matches | Overs | Wickets | Best Bowling (BBI) | Average | Economy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| T20Is | 2 | 8.0 | 6 | 4/18 | 7.33 | 5.50 |
| T20 (Overall) | 38 | 149.4 | 59 | 4/17 | 17.44 | 6.87 |
With the T20 World Cup on the horizon, Usman Tariq is poised to be one of Pakistan’s standout players. His journey from obscurity to national prominence is seen as a fairy tale in the cricketing world. The upcoming matches will test his skills and potentially validate his place as a key player in Pakistan’s quest for T20 glory.
