From Factory Worker to Cricket Star: The Inspirational Journey of Usman Tariq
In a tale that bridges borders and defies odds, Pakistan's new spin sensation, Usman Tariq, has carved an improbable path to international cricket. His breakthrough, marked by a unique sling-arm action and relentless persistence, began with a spark of inspiration from an unlikely source: the biopic of Indian cricket legend MS Dhoni.
A Cinematic Turning Point
Watching MS Dhoni: The Untold Story, Usman found his moment of clarity in a scene where the protagonist abandons a mundane job to pursue cricket. At the time, Usman was working in an automobile factory in Dubai, handling logistics and procurement, a role that left little room for his cricketing dreams. Moved by Dhoni's resolve, he packed his bags and headed to Karachi, setting in motion a journey that would lead to his T20 World Cup debut just three months after his first appearance for Pakistan.
The Sling-Arm Phenomenon
Usman's bowling action, reminiscent of Lasith Malinga's sling-arm style with a lower trajectory, has captivated fans and baffled batsmen. However, his rise from Peshawar to the national team, via stops in Kabul, Dubai, the USA, and Karachi, is a story of extraordinary resilience. Nabeel Hashmi, General Manager of Quetta Gladiators, recalls spotting Usman at a Ramadan tournament in Karachi. "He was different from everyone, with a unique action that made it challenging for batsmen to set themselves up," Hashmi notes, highlighting how Usman's talent stood out even in local competitions.
Global Grind and Breakthrough
Seeking opportunities, Usman ventured to the USA to play in Minor League Cricket, where he made a significant impact. Despite the allure of settling abroad, he returned to Karachi for the Sindh Premier League, recognizing it as a potential life-changer. His performance—13 wickets in four matches—caught the attention of PSL scouts, leading to his inclusion in Quetta Gladiators in 2024. From there, he became a T20 globetrotter, excelling in tournaments like the Abu Dhabi T10, ILT20, and Caribbean Premier League, where he finished as the second-highest wicket-taker.
Overcoming Adversity
Usman's journey has not been without hurdles. He was reported twice for an illegal bowling action, but medical clearance revealed his double-jointed elbows create an illusion of bending, allowing him to continue. Off the field, his early life was marked by struggle. After losing his father, he worked in Kabul under harsh conditions, with temperatures dropping to 0 degrees Celsius, and later in Dubai peeling onions, which caused back issues. His cousin, Haseeb Ur Rahman, who supported him through these trials, says, "He rarely had good days, but his determination never wavered."
A Moment of Controversy and Character
Recently, during a T20I against Australia, all-rounder Cameron Green gestured that Usman was throwing the ball, sparking controversy. Usman responded with humor, posting a video of a crying child on Instagram captioned, "After getting out." This lighthearted reaction reflects his ability to navigate challenges with grace, a trait honed through years of adversity.
Today, Usman Tariq stands as a testament to the power of dreams, inspired by Dhoni's story and tempered by his own struggles. His rise from factory floors to cricket stadiums underscores a narrative of persistence that transcends borders, making him a sling-arm surprise in the world of international cricket.
