Quetta Gladiators’ Offspinner Usman Tariq Under Scrutiny for Suspect Action for Second Consecutive PSL Season
In a repeat of last season’s controversy, Usman Tariq, the 27-year-old offspinner for Quetta Gladiators, has once again been reported for a suspect bowling action during the ongoing PSL 2025 season. Match officials Ahsan Raza and Chris Brown flagged his action during the Gladiators’ recent match against Lahore Qalandars, which the Qalandars won convincingly by 79 runs.
This is the second time in 12 months that Tariq’s action has come under the microscope, raising concerns over the legality of his delivery style in top-level cricket. In this match, Tariq bowled a full four-over spell, conceding 31 runs and taking one wicket.
Tariq Can Continue Bowling – For Now
According to Pakistan Super League regulations, Tariq is still allowed to bowl in upcoming matches unless his action is reported again. A second report would trigger an automatic suspension from bowling until he undergoes formal testing at an ICC-accredited biomechanics laboratory and clears the assessment.
Previous Bowling Action Report in PSL 2024
Tariq was first reported in March 2024, just three games into that PSL season. However, he was cleared five days later after testing at the National Cricket Academy in Lahore, allowing him to resume bowling without restriction. It’s expected he’ll have to follow a similar process this time around if a retest is required.
Tariq’s Unorthodox Bowling Style Under the Scanner
The scrutiny of Usman Tariq’s action stems from his highly unconventional delivery style. While his run-up is standard, it’s his pronounced pause at the crease — sometimes lasting up to two full seconds — that has drawn attention. This is followed by a slinging, side-arm release, which adds a level of unpredictability but also raises questions about legality under ICC guidelines.
Such unique techniques often walk a fine line between innovation and rule violation, and Tariq’s case is a reminder of the thin margin bowlers operate within at the elite level.
When Will Tariq Be Tested Again?
There is no official confirmation yet regarding when Usman Tariq’s bowling action will be retested. Although Pakistan does have an ICC-accredited biomechanics lab in Lahore, the Gladiators are not scheduled to play in Lahore until April 25. This delay could complicate the timeline for any official clearance.
So far in PSL 2025, Quetta Gladiators have played two matches—securing a solid win over Peshawar Zalmi in their opener but then suffering a heavy loss to the Qalandars in the game that led to Tariq’s report.