As anticipation builds for the blockbuster india vs pakistan showdown on ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026captain of india Suryakumar Yadav A touch of theater and tactical brilliance was added to the team’s training session in Colombo on Saturday evening.
With the defending champions gearing up for a crucial group-stage encounter, Suryakumar took up the responsibility of recreating the bowling action of Pakistan’s emerging spin threat. Osman Tariq. This move was not just playful imitation; It was a deliberate attempt to help India’s batsmen adjust to Tariq’s unusual rhythm before entering the high-pressure encounter.
Suryakumar Yadav copied the bowling action of Usman Tariq
Tariq has fast become a topic of discussion in the Pakistani camp. Known for his distinctive stop-start delivery stride, the spinner disrupts the batsman’s timing with subtle pauses and an unconventional approach to the crease. Their bizarre action, although legal, can create hesitation and force hasty decisions – a dangerous trait in the shortest format.
It seems that India’s think tank is determined not to commit any kind of negligence. During the nets session, Suryakumar mimicked Tariq’s wobbly run-up and delayed release, bringing smiles to his teammates’ faces but also sharpening the attention of the batsmen he faced. The intention was clear: to eliminate the element of surprise.
The captain’s practical involvement highlighted his proactive leadership style. Instead of leaving it to the net bowlers alone, he stepped into the role himself, and ensured that the practice closely mirrored what his team might experience on match day.
Here is the video:
Sky ft Usman Tariq.😜
Usman Tariq Bowling Action Twist: पाक विदेश This is a great idea! 🏏
📺 Watch | icc men #T20WorldCup 2026 | #INDvPAK | Sunday, February 15, 6 pm | There are Star Sports and JioHotstar.#TeamIndia #SuryaKumarYadav pic.twitter.com/EfutOXBBe0
– Star Sports Kannada (@StarSportsKan) 14 February 2026
Also read: ‘Zimbabwe Prediction’: Why does history say Suryakumar Yadav’s India will win T20 World Cup 2026?
Abhishek Sharma’s concentrated duel in the nets
One of the most closely watched segments of the session involved the inaugural Abhishek SharmaWho are performing brilliantly in the top order. The practice footage shows Abhishek repeatedly copying Tariq’s action while facing Suryakumar, adjusting his trigger movement and working on picking up the ball early.
This young left-handed player has played an important role in giving India an explosive start in the tournament. His ability to counter spin inside the powerplay could prove decisive, especially if Pakistan introduce Tariq early to disrupt the flow. The focused practice hinted at a potentially crucial battle: Abhishek’s aggressive intent versus Tariq’s deceptive speed. In competitions between India and Pakistan, individual duels often shape the story – and it can be decisive.
Also read: Is Usman Tariq’s bowling action legal? breaking pause dispute
