Pakistan’s mystery spinner Usman Tariq may be new to international cricket, but he has already become one of the most talked-about players of the T20 World Cup 2026. Despite playing fewer than five international matches, Tariq is making headlines—not just for his performance, but for his unusual bowling action.

Ahead of the high-voltage India vs Pakistan clash on February 15, Usman Tariq has issued a bold warning to Team India, claiming the pressure will be on the Men in Blue, not him.

“Pressure Will Be on India,” Says Usman Tariq

Confident after escaping scrutiny over his bowling action, Usman Tariq made his stance clear before the marquee clash.

“I am not under any pressure regarding my bowling action. The pressure will be on India,” Tariq said.

His statement reflects the confidence gained after the ICC cleared his bowling action, despite repeated objections from opposition players and experts.

What Makes Usman Tariq’s Bowling Action Controversial?

Usman Tariq’s action stands out due to a noticeable pause before release. He appears to momentarily halt his arm, seemingly reading the batter’s movement before delivering the ball. This unique rhythm has unsettled batters and sparked debate.

During the Australia–Pakistan T20 series, Australian all-rounder Cameron Green compared Tariq’s action to “throwing a stone.” However, after review:

• The ICC declared his action legal

• Elite panel umpires found no violation

• Indian-born ICC umpire Anil Chaudhary publicly confirmed its legality

With official clearance, Tariq is free to bowl without restrictions.

Why Usman Tariq Is a Serious Threat to Team India

🔹 Unmatched Consistency

Usman Tariq holds a unique record—he has taken at least one wicket in 23 consecutive T20 innings, the most by any Pakistani bowler.

• 11 wickets in 4 T20 Internationals

• Wickets in every competitive outing so far

🔹 Mystery Factor

Indian batters will face Usman Tariq for the first time, increasing the danger. His unfamiliar action combined with sharp variations makes him difficult to read.

🔹 Deadly Variations

Tariq’s bowling arsenal includes:

• High-arm googly

• Low-arm googly

• Carrom ball

• Quicker delivery

These variations, delivered from the same deceptive action, can be lethal—especially in pressure games.

India vs Pakistan: A Key Battle on February 15

With confidence soaring, a clean ICC chit, and batters yet to decode him, Usman Tariq enters the India-Pakistan clash as a genuine X-factor. If he finds rhythm early, he could tilt the balance in Pakistan’s favor.

All eyes will be on how India’s star-studded batting lineup handles Pakistan’s newest mystery weapon.