Pakistan’s mystery spinner Usman Tariq impressed in the T20 World Cup against the United States, but his bowling action drew criticism from Indian domestic cricketer Shrivastava Goswami.
Former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin swiftly defended Tariq with a detailed and sharp response.
During the T20 World Cup clash against the United States, Usman Tariq showcased a brilliant performance, claiming three key wickets. However, Indian domestic cricketer and commentator Shrivastava Goswami shared a clip of Tariq’s bowling on social media, questioning the legality of his action.
Goswami wrote in the caption that even in football, players cannot pause mid-action during a penalty kick. He questioned how pausing during a delivery could be acceptable in cricket, suggesting that such actions “cannot go on like this.”
Ashwin responds to criticism
Ravichandran Ashwin, former Indian off-spinner known for his clever variations, responded directly to Goswami’s post. Ashwin acknowledged that pauses are not allowed in football but pointed out the double standard in cricket.
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.
— Ashwin 🇮🇳 (@ashwinravi99) February 11, 2026
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… pic.twitter.com/RbTkY6xJ3h
“When a batter can play reverse sweep without informing the bowler or umpire, or switch hands mid-shot, why are only bowlers restricted?” Ashwin wrote. He further emphasized that a bowler cannot legally change hands mid-delivery without informing the umpire, highlighting that rules should be applied consistently.
ICC rules and bowling legality
Ashwin elaborated in a longer post on X, explaining that the legality of a bowling action is determined at ICC testing centers. According to ICC rules, any action with an elbow extension up to 15 degrees is legal. Regarding pausing during delivery, Ashwin added, “In my opinion, it is completely legal.”
Usman Tariq’s skill was on full display against the United States. His three crucial wickets helped Pakistan control the game, reinforcing his status as a “mystery spinner” capable of unsettling batsmen with unusual variations.
