Usman Tariq Reported Again for Suspect Bowling Action During PSL 2025
Quetta Gladiators’ offspinner Usman Tariq has once again found himself under scrutiny, as umpires Ahsan Raza and Chris Brown reported him for a suspect bowling action during Sunday’s match against Lahore Qalandars — the same issue he faced last year.
The 27-year-old, who only featured in his second match of the current season, bowled a complete four-over spell, finishing with figures of 1 for 31. Despite the report, he remains eligible to bowl for now. However, if his action is flagged again in any upcoming matches, he will face an automatic suspension until he receives clearance from an ICC-accredited biomechanics lab.
This isn’t Tariq’s first brush with such concerns. In March 2024, during the previous edition of the Pakistan Super League, he was also reported after just three appearances. That time, his action was tested and cleared within five days at the National Cricket Academy in Lahore, allowing him to continue without disruption.
Tariq’s unique action has caught the eye of fans and officials alike. While his run-up seems fairly standard, it’s his exaggerated pause just before delivering the ball — sometimes lasting nearly two seconds — and a slinging, side-arm motion that has raised eyebrows. Though unconventional, his method has been effective at times and even earned him attention last season.
With no test date confirmed yet, it’s unclear how soon Tariq’s action will be evaluated this time. While Pakistan does have an ICC-approved biomechanics lab in Lahore, the Gladiators don’t play in that city again until April 25, possibly delaying the assessment.
So far in PSL 2025, Quetta Gladiators have had mixed fortunes — winning their opener against Peshawar Zalmi convincingly, but suffering a heavy 79-run defeat at the hands of Lahore Qalandars in their second game, where Tariq’s bowling came under the spotlight once again.
Whether his unique style will be cleared a second time or lead to a suspension remains to be seen, but for now, Tariq will continue to be monitored closely.
