Is Pakistan Spinner’s Bent-Arm, Zig-Zag Action with Long Pause Legal?
Australia all-rounder Cameron Green expressed frustration after his dismissal in a recent T20I match, angrily mimicking the bowling action of Pakistan off-spinner Usman Tariq, as if suggesting it exceeded the permissible 15-degree bent-elbow limit. However, upon reviewing replays, Green promptly apologized to the bowler, acknowledging the complexity of the situation.
Confounding Umpires and Repeated Clearances
Usman Tariq's unorthodox action has consistently puzzled umpires, leading to two reports during the Pakistan Super League (PSL). Despite these concerns, he has been cleared in every bio-mechanical test conducted, reinforcing the legitimacy of his technique under cricket regulations.
Explaining the Biological Basis
In an interview with MYK channel, Tariq clarified, "I have two elbows in my arm. My arm bends naturally. I have got this tested and cleared. Everyone feels I bend my arms and all that. My bent arm is a biological issue." Medically, he has double-jointed elbows, a condition preventing full arm extension, similar to legendary bowlers like Muttiah Muralitharan, who had a congenital deformity, and Shoaib Akhtar with his 'noodle arms'. Jasprit Bumrah also possesses a hyper-extended elbow, showcasing how natural anatomical variations can influence bowling styles.
The Fascinating Mechanics of Tariq's Action
The 28-year-old's bowling approach is a spectacle in itself. With a remarkably short and slow run-up, he zig-zags from behind the umpire, holds the ball waist-high, and incorporates a prolonged pause. His right-arm extends like a wind turbine, often obstructing the umpire's view, before a gentle release reminiscent of Lasith Malinga's round-arm slings, albeit at a slower pace of 75-80 kph.
From Fast Bowling Dreams to Spin Success
Initially aspiring to be a fast bowler, Tariq's career took a turn after an injury during a tennis-ball game in Nowshera, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Forced to bowl off-breaks due to a shortage of bowlers, he excelled, encouraged by his coach to pursue spin. His unique action, slow in a fast-paced T20 format, unsettles batsmen by testing their peripheral vision and requiring them to track the ball from an unusual angle.
Variations and Impact on the Field
Tariq employs a diverse arsenal, including arm-balls, carrom balls, and back-of-the-hand wrong'uns, similar to leg-spinners. His ability to bowl similar deliveries with subtle differences, combined with strategic speed and length variations, makes him a formidable opponent. In just three international games, he has claimed eight wickets at an average of 7.50 and an economy rate of 5.62, highlighting his effectiveness.
A Career Revived by Inspiration
His journey almost ended when he quit cricket for a job as a purchase coordinator in Dubai, driven by livelihood pressures. However, the film MS Dhoni: The Untold Story reignited his passion, leading him to return to cricket. Discovered by PSL scouts in 2023, he has since made a mark with his distinctive round-arm flings, carving out a niche in the sport.
This story underscores how natural advantages and perseverance can shape unique cricketing talents, challenging conventional norms while adhering to the rules.
