Not India vs Pakistan anymore, it is all about Usman Tariq’s bowling action in Colombo
Times of India
by PRATYUSH RAJFebruary 14, 2026
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The spotlight in the upcoming India vs Pakistan match at the T20 World Cup has shifted from the traditional rivalry to Usman Tariq’s unique bowling action, which has sparked debates and curiosity among fans and experts alike. Known for his distinctive pause before delivering, Tariq’s ability to maintain this exaggerated stride despite doubts about his bowling action has made him a focal point of discussions. Pakistan captain Salman Agha has repeatedly emphasized that Tariq is fully cleared by the ICC and is an essential asset for the team, yet the constant focus on his action has drawn mixed reactions.
Tariq’s journey to international cricket has been fraught with challenges, including two instances where he was reported for a suspect bowling action during the Pakistan Super League (PSL). However, both times he was cleared after rigorous testing at the National Cricket Academy in Lahore. Despite this, Tariq remains unfazed, often joking about the attention his action attracts. His cousin Haseeb ur Rehman shared that Tariq views the criticism as a form of free publicity, even sarcastically remarking that the more negativity surrounding him, the more famous he becomes.
Veteran Indian spinner R Ashwin has highlighted the potential challenges Tariq’s delivery style poses to batters. Ashwin suggested that if Tariq continues his exaggerated pause, batters could argue they were forced to move away due to uncertainty about when the ball would be delivered. This scenario could create a complex situation for umpires, potentially leading to warnings or even altering Tariq’s effectiveness on the field. Meanwhile, former Pakistan captain Sarfaraz Ahmed noted that Tariq’s pause disrupts batters’ concentration, making it difficult for them to anticipate his deliveries.
The unprecedented attention on Tariq’s bowling action has overshadowed the historic India vs Pakistan rivalry, turning the match into a testcase of how batters and umpires handle such unique delivery styles. As cricket enthusiasts eagerly await the clash, all eyes will be on whether Tariq can maintain his form under pressure and if
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Originally published on Times of India on 2/14/2026