Usman Tariq has hit out at his critics ahead of a potential call-up to Pakistan’s T20 World Cup 2026 squad, calling them “illiterate” amid lingering allegations over his bowling action. Tariq, who picked up a hat-trick in Pakistan’s recent T20I series against Pakistan, has been in the limelight ever since he rose to fame in T20 leagues around the world.
The machine gun has come under scrutiny in the past six months for what many observers see as illegal conduct, with critics saying he exceeds the ICC’s allowed 15-degree elbow flexion. The distinct bend in his arm along with the unusual run-up has fueled debate about how he will continue to perform in the top T20 leagues around the world.
Speaking to The National ahead of the International League T20 (ILT20) final, Tariq dismissed the allegations and insisted his actions were confirmed by biomechanical testing.
“Lack of knowledge is dangerous,” Tariq said, adding that he underwent two separate biomechanical tests in Pakistan, both of which confirmed his actions were in line with ICC guidelines.
Tariq explained that the physical condition in his bowling arm contributes to the perception that he is bowling.
“There are two corners on my (elbow) that make it difficult for me to straighten,” he said. “It creates confusion for the audience.”
He pointed out that pitchers accused of chucking are routinely sent for testing and asked to redo their actions if necessary. In his case, he said, such an intervention was not needed.
“When I went for the test, it was cleared within a week. I didn’t get the answer that you need to change your activity or improve your grades. I was confident because I know I’m not throwing,” said Tariq.
The spinner has played only two T20 Internationals for Pakistan so far, taking six wickets, with most of his experience coming from franchise cricket. He picked up 63 wickets from 39 matches across various T20 leagues.
Tariq reserved his strongest words for those who questioned his legitimacy as a bowler.
“I would like to say on this platform that any person who speaks on these things should study cricket first,” he said.
“If you don’t have knowledge about cricket and you just comment or share your thoughts, then illiteracy can kill knowledge. It’s better to have knowledge and then you can comment on anyone.”
– The end
Issued by:
Kingshuk Kusari
Published on:
January 4, 2026
