Mumbai (Sports Desk): Pakistani spinner Usman Tariq’s stellar performance has ignited a debate in Indian cricket circles. In the T20 World Cup match against the USA, Usman Tariq took three crucial wickets, playing a key role in Pakistan’s victory, which led some Indian critics to question his actions.
An obscure Indian domestic cricketer shared a video of Usman Tariq on social media, claiming that pausing before bowling goes against the principles of the game—similar to stopping suddenly during a football penalty. According to him, continuing the action is fine, but taking a pause before delivering a hit is questionable.
However, Indian spin legend Ravi Shastri defended Usman Tariq. Shastri stated that while the batter has the freedom to play switch hits or reverse shots, why should restrictions be imposed on the bowler? According to him, the batter should have complete freedom to choose their batting side, whereas the bowler must inform the umpire before changing their bowling hand. Shastri also suggested that this rule needs to be reviewed.
Ravi Shastri’s clarification came in defense of Usman Tariq and has gained support on social media from both Pakistani fans and some Indian followers.