MUMBAI: Indian Umpire Anil Chaudhary Defends Pakistan Spinner Usman Tariq’s Action Ahead of High-Stakes Clash
Former Indian cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin and now Indian international umpire Anil Chaudhary have both come out in support of Pakistani spinner Usman Tariq, declaring his bowling action to be completely legal.
With the much-anticipated Pakistan vs India match scheduled for Sunday in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, the biggest talking point in the build-up has been Indian players, fans, and media repeatedly questioning the legality of Pakistan’s mystery spinner Usman Tariq’s bowling action.
Many in India , both on social media and in mainstream coverage , have expressed concern and fear over Pakistan’s spin attack, particularly focusing on Usman Tariq’s unique delivery style.
While his action is visibly different from conventional spinners, it has been fully cleared by the ICC.
Usman Tariq has already bowled in the tournament, delivering a standout performance against the USA, with no issues raised during the match.
Indian critics have mainly targeted the noticeable pause he makes before releasing the ball. However, both Ashwin and now umpire Anil Chaudhary have addressed these concerns directly.
Ashwin’s idea that a batsman can pull out isn’t as clear-cut as he makes it seem.
Umpire Anil Chaudhary explained on Jatin Sapru’s show that it only applies if there’s a clear, obvious change in the pause.
If it’s part of Usman Tariq’s usual action, it’s considered legal.
If… https://t.co/gI9zswjnVX pic.twitter.com/zi5ieR9Pu5
— Kh4N PCT (@Kh4N_PCT) February 13, 2026
In a recent Indian digital show, Anil Chaudhary clearly stated that Usman Tariq’s action is legal and consistent. He explained:
- Usman Tariq pauses before every single delivery — this is simply part of his natural and routine bowling action.
- There is no problem as long as he continues to bowl with exactly the same action every time.
- The issue would only arise if Usman suddenly changes his action and bowls without the usual pause.
Chaudhary gave examples from the past — including Andre Russell and other bowlers — who were called when they deviated from their normal action.
