Mystery spinner Usman Tariq is once again under the microscope after Pakistan’s win over the USA in the T20 World Cup 2026.

As per the details, internet and cricketing experts, especially those from India, have a lot to say about Tariq’s unconventional bowling action after he starred with three wickets for 27 runs.

Amid mixed reactions, former Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has defended the 28-year-old, saying on-field judging of elbow flex is impractical and the issue needs clearer solutions.

“Okay, let me make it as clear as possible. Firstly, the legalities of his action can only be tested at an ICC bowling action testing Centre. Secondly, there is a 15° rule under which a bowler needs to keep his elbow and straighten it and to judge if a bowler is bowling within that 15° mark by the onfield Umpire is impossible. The only solution to that is having a real time in competition testing tool [sic],” Ashwin wrote on X.

He added that it was a grey area and to accuse someone for utilising it was wrong.

“Finally, if the pause at the crease is legal or not, and that’s where I believe that it is entirely legal because that is his regular action,” he concluded.

Tariq’s bowling action is distinctive as he follows a normal run-up with a pause at release, almost coming to a complete stop before delivering side-arm, slinging off-breaks.

He has been reported twice before, first during the 2024 PSL and again in the next edition, however, was cleared both times.