Colombo: Former India star Ravichandran Ashwin came to the defence of Pakistan spinner Usman Tariq, who again faced scrutiny over his bowling action during Pakistan’s second match of the 2026 T20 World Cup against the USA in Colombo.

The debate erupted on social media, with critics accusing Tariq of “chucking” and questioning his distinctive “pause-and-deliver” style.

This is not the first time Tariq has faced such scrutiny. Earlier this month, during Pakistan’s home series against Australia, Cameron Green appeared to mock his action. Despite the criticism, the spinner was cleared by the ICC twice last year, and his action remains officially legal.

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The controversy reignited after Tariq claimed three wickets in Pakistan’s 32-run win over the USA, lifting them to the top of Group A.

While online criticism largely centred on alleged elbow extension, veteran Indian cricketer Shreevats Goswami raised concerns over the “pause” in Tariq’s delivery. Drawing a comparison with football, Goswami argued that similar scrutiny should apply in cricket.

“Even football doesn’t allow players to pause during a penalty run-up anymore. How is this ok? Action — all good. But pause? That too while loading to deliver. This can’t be continued seriously,” Goswami wrote.

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Ashwin, however, defended Tariq while agreeing with the football comparison, highlighting what he sees as inconsistencies in cricket’s rules for bowlers versus batters.

“Agree, football doesn’t allow it! While the batter can switch-hit or reverse without informing the umpire or bowler, after committing to bat on one side, why are the restrictions only limited to the bowler?” Ashwin posted. “In fact, the bowler isn’t allowed to change the arm with which he/she bowls without informing the umpire. They should first change that rule.”

According to ICC regulations, a bowler’s elbow extension must not exceed 15 degrees between the arm reaching horizontal and the point of release — a rule frequently cited in social media posts accusing Tariq of chucking.