Rivals Not Enemies, Ashwin backs Usman Tariq as bowling action controversy resurfaces
COLOMBO: Pakistan’s mystery spinner Usman Tariq has found support from former India off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin amid renewed claims regarding the legality of his bowling action.
On Tuesday, Pakistan secured a convincing 32-run victory over the United States thanks to a solid team performance.
Tariq excelled, taking three wickets for 27 runs. However, instead of winning the match, his bowling performance once again came under scrutiny.
Former Indian cricketer Shreevats Goswami questioned Tariq’s pause during his run-up, comparing it to the American football rule that no longer allows players to pause during the run-up to a penalty. Goswami argued that such an action should not be allowed.
“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 on X.
Ashwin, however, came to Tariq’s defense. The former India spinner questioned why restrictions are often imposed on bowlers, while batsmen are given greater flexibility.
“Agree football doesn’t allow it! While the batter can be allowed to switch hit or reverse without informing the umpire or bowler, after him/her commits to start batting on one side, why are the restrictions only limited to the bowler? 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,” Ashwin posted on X.
Ashwin further explained that determining whether a bowler has exceeded the 15-degree elbow extension allowed during a match is extremely difficult for on-field umpires. He suggested that a real-time testing tool, available during the match, could help address such issues.
“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. Secondly, there is a 15° rule under which a bowler needs to keep his elbow within the permitted limit. To judge if a bowler is within that 15° mark by the on-field umpire is impossible. The only solution to that is having a real-time, in-competition testing tool,” Ashwin stated.
He added that the use of a grey area should not be a source of criticism and argued that Tariq’s break at the crease was legal as it was part of his normal bowling action.
“The above is a grey area, and to accuse someone of utilising the grey area is wrong. Finally, if the pause at the crease is legal or not — I believe it is entirely legal because that is his regular action,” Ashwin added.
Notably, Tariq has previously been reported twice during his career in the Pakistan Super League but was cleared on both occasions.
