Tim David is the latest cricketer to raise concerns over the bowling action of Pakistan national cricket team spinner Usman Tariq after he was dismissed by the spinner in the men’s The Hundred match.
David was clearly not happy with the Pakistani bowler’s dismissal and bowling action as Usman’s ball outside off stump went into the keeper’s gloves behind the stumps, after which he spontaneously demanded a review.
Tim David asked the umpire to review the ball of Usman Tariq
The umpire signaled it as a valid caught out behind the stumps. David indicated to review the decision but the umpire rejected it. As the batsman was leaving the pitch, he spoke to the umpire for a few seconds, likely to express his concern over Usman Tariq’s bowling action.
Usman Tariq’s bowling action once again under scrutiny.
– Tim David has become the latest player to question Usman Tariq’s bowling action.
– Earlier, Cameron Green had also expressed concern over Tariq’s actions during a match and brought it to the attention of the umpires.
– with…
— Talha Nawaz (@TalhaDigital007) July 25, 2026
Controversy over Usman’s bowling action is nothing new in cricket. On many occasions, cricketers and umpires have expressed their doubts about this. But, at the end of the day, Usman Tariq is clear to continue his bowling action due to MCC rules.
What are the MCC rules for bowling action?
As per the MCC rules for bowling action, it is stated that a bowling action will be considered a fair action if the ball is not bowled. The rule specifically mentions that when the bowler’s arm reaches shoulder level in the delivery swing, the elbow should not be partially or fully straightened before the ball leaves the hand.
In another rule, it is also specified that a delivery will not be considered valid if the bowler makes a “deliberate attempt to distract the batsman”. Does Usman Tariq bowl? This question remains a subject of debate.
Earlier this year, during the Pakistan vs Australia second T20 match, Cameron Green had expressed doubts over the controversial bowling action after his dismissal.
The bowling action was under question during the 2024 Pakistan Super League and 2025 Pakistan Super League. Usman’s actions in both seasons were reported by on-field umpires.
Usman Tariq, however, is confident about his bowling action.
However, amid the controversy, Usman has given his own explanation behind his bowling style. In an interview, he told that due to his unique body structure, his bowling action looks unique. He also claimed that his action was tested earlier and he was given clearance to continue.
Speaking to MYK Sports in April 2025, the Pakistan international said, “My action is unique because my body dimensions are unique. My body structure is not like a common person. I have two elbows in my arm. My arm naturally bends. I have got it tested and it is cleared. Everyone thinks I bend my arms and all that. My bent arm is a biological issue.”
After the dismissal of Tim David and his obvious dissatisfaction on the spot, Usman’s bowling action again became a topic of discussion among cricket fans around the world. It will be interesting to see whether the on-field umpire takes any further action after David’s dismissal.
