Pakistan spinner Usman Tariq has become a focal point of controversy after his atypical bowling action triggered significant backlash on social media during the third and final T20 International against South Africa at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on November 1.
During Pakistan’s four-wicket win over South Africa, Usman Tariq was visibly seen chucking while bowling. In the 10th over of the South African innings, he was observed gaining extra spin while extending his arm beyond the permitted limits before delivering a ball to Donovan Ferreira.
Usman Tariq Sparks Controversy as Fans Accuse Him of Chucking in Lahore T20I
Tariq bowled a full toss at 94.1 km/h on the leg side, which Ferreira skillfully flicked for two runs. However, fans quickly noticed Tariq’s bowling action, igniting a wave of criticism online.
Surprisingly, the match officials did not call the delivery a no-ball, further fueling outrage on social media. According to regulations, a bowler’s arm is allowed to bend slightly, up to 15 degrees.
Video clips showcasing Usman Tariq’s bowling style spread virally, with fans accusing him of “chucking” and advocating for the International Cricket Council (ICC) to take action. Many expressed disbelief that such an action could be permitted in international cricket, leading to a flood of memes and comments, with some even labeling him as the “new Bhatta bowler of Pakistan.”
WHAT THE HELL!!!!😡
Usman Tariq- THE NEW BHATTA BOWLER OF PAKISTAN
Why do these frauds come from Pakistan????
He is chucking while bowling.
BHATTA FEK RAHA HAI YE TOH!!!
ICC should immediately take action against him!!#ICC #PAKvSA #CricketTwitter pic.twitter.com/gASRtK58YH— Lakshya Bhadauria (@IamLakshya18) November 1, 2025
Usman Tariq’s Past Bowling Action Controversy
This is not the first time Usman Tariq’s bowling action has faced scrutiny. Back in March 2024, just three matches into the Pakistan Super League, he was reported for a suspicious bowling action. However, after a thorough review and assessment at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Lahore, he was cleared by experts just five days later and permitted to continue participating in the tournament. Tariq clarified that his unconventional action is a natural part of his bowling rhythm.
Shaheen Afridi’s Fiery Spell and Babar Azam’s Masterclass Led Pakistan to a T20I Series Win
Babar Azam once again showcased why he’s a match-winner, leading Pakistan to a thrilling T20I series victory over South Africa. Babar scored an impressive 68 runs off 47 balls, helping Pakistan chase down 140 runs with six balls remaining, concluding the final T20I with a four-wicket win.
Captain Salman Ali Agha added 33 runs, while Shaheen Afridi set a robust foundation with a fiery opening spell, taking two wickets in the first over and finishing with three overall. His early strikes left South Africa struggling, limiting them to just 139 runs.
With this victory, Pakistan claimed the T20I series 2-1, following a hard-fought 1-1 draw in the Test matches. The team is set to enter a three-match ODI series, starting on November 4.
