Ravichandran Ashwin breaks silence on Usman Tariq’s bowling action. [Source - @ashkibaat99 YT/AP]Usman Tariq, the Pakistani spinner, recently became the center of attention after dismissing Australian allrounder Cameron Green in the second T20I between Australia and Pakistan in Lahore. Green openly questioned Usman Tariq’s bowling action, mimicking it while walking back to the dugout, sparking a heated debate. The incident quickly went viral, drawing reactions from fans, experts, and former cricketers alike. Analysts dissected Tariq’s unique slinging style, and discussions about bowling legality dominated social media, making the controversy one of the most talked-about topics in recent T20Is. Australian cricketer Usman Khawaja defended Usman Tariq, supporting the legitimacy of his action. Amid the ongoing debate, another former cricketer, this time from India, has now broken his silence, offering his perspective on Tariq’s bowling and its place in international cricket. Ravichandran Ashwin opened up on Usman Tariq’s bowling action Former Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin described Usman Tariq’s bowling action as unique, noting that while it has been cleared by official tests, he personally held mixed views on it. “There is a pause in Usman Tariq’s action, which is legally allowed. His action is unusual and unique, with some variations. Ultimately, the decision on its legality rests with the ICC, the umpires, and the match referees,” Ravichandran Ashwin said. Ashwin emphasized that ultimately it is the ICC’s responsibility to review the action and make a final decision. He suggested that discussions about Tariq should remain measured, focusing on the game while the governing body examines the matter. Ashwin’s big claims on bowlers playing World Cups with suspect actions Ravichandran Ashwin also made a broader claim about cricket’s history, stating that some bowlers have participated in World Cups despite having questionable actions. He did not name anyone but suggested that such cases are not unprecedented. “I also want to point out that in the past, there have been players with suspect actions who have played in World Cups, but I prefer not to name them,” Ashwin added. With the T20 World Cup 2026 approaching, Ashwin’s comments add fuel to the debate. Tariq, now a key part of Pakistan’s spin attack alongside Abrar Ahmed and Mohammad Nawaz, could face increased scrutiny, but Ashwin’s perspective highlights that controversies like this are not uncommon in international cricket.Ashwin points to past controversies as a caution for Usman Ravichandran Ashwin highlighted that some bowlers in the past, despite having suspect actions, have played in World Cups. While he didn’t name names, it is widely speculated he might be referring to Pakistan’s Saeed Ajmal and Sri Lanka’s Muttiah Muralitharan, two of the biggest names whose unusual actions were cleared by the ICC. Usman Tariq, meanwhile, has faced scrutiny himself, having been reported twice for suspect action during his time in the PSL. He successfully cleared all ICC biomechanical tests without complications, proving his action is legal and allowing him to represent Pakistan in T20Is and the 2026 World Cup. Tariq bowls with a short run-up and a unique slinging action due to a rare biological condition, his elbow has two joints instead of one, preventing full extension. He is currently bowling with the green light from the ICC, and Ashwin’s comments adds perspective without overriding the governing body’s decision.
