Usman Tariq Credits MS Dhoni For Cricketing Inspiration
Usman Tariq has emerged as a major talking point ahead of the India vs Pakistan T20 World Cup 2026 clash, with the 28-year-old off-spinner revealing how MS Dhoni’s biopic inspired his cricketing journey. Known for his unique stop-and-pause side-arm action, Tariq has already impressed with 11 wickets in four T20Is, and 70 wickets in 42 T20 games overall, making him a key factor on slow tracks like Colombo’s Premadasa Stadium.
Usman Tariq’s Rise Ahead of India-Pakistan T20 Clash
Usman Tariq, the unconventional Pakistan spinner, has become the center of discussion ahead of the high-stakes India vs Pakistan T20 World Cup 2026 game. Tariq’s unorthodox stop-and-pause side-arm bowling has drawn attention, with critics debating its legality while fans marvel at his results. In four T20Is, Tariq has taken 11 wickets at an economy rate of less than six runs per over, showcasing both control and deception.
Across all T20 formats, Tariq has picked up 70 wickets in 42 matches, reflecting a remarkable consistency. His ability to change pace while maintaining the same bowling momentum makes him a challenge even for top international batters, particularly on slower, gripping tracks like Premadasa.
MS Dhoni’s Biopic Inspires Tariq
Interestingly, Tariq credits former India captain MS Dhoni for inspiring him to pursue cricket seriously. In 2016, Tariq had nearly given up on his professional cricket dreams, working as a salesman in Dubai. Watching Dhoni’s biopic motivated him to continue striving for success.
“I had left behind the idea of making a name in cricket, but one day I watched this film, and it convinced me that I can also do the same,” Tariq revealed. He soon showcased his talent in the Caribbean Premier League, taking 20 wickets, which led to his selection for the Pakistan national team.
He humorously added that learning about his selection during his wedding preparations felt surreal, joking that his wife brought him luck.
Tariq’s Bowling Style and Legal Debate
Tariq’s side-arm action has drawn mixed opinions. Former England captain Kevin Pietersen labeled the pause in his delivery “illegal,” whereas India’s R Ashwin defended it. Ashwin pointed out that the legality of Tariq’s action can only be verified through ICC bowling action testing facilities, given the 15-degree rule restricting elbow straightening during delivery.
“Accusing someone of utilising that grey area is wrong,” Ashwin said, emphasizing that Tariq’s pause and side-arm technique fall within the permissible limits. According to Ashwin, Tariq’s pause is a part of his regular action and does not violate any laws.
Tactical Implications for India
Usman Tariq’s bowling style presents a strategic challenge for India’s batters. By waiting until a batter completes their trigger movement before delivering the ball, Tariq forces the batter to rely on timing, footwork, and anticipation. Ashwin’s analysis suggests that while the pause is legal, Indian batters must adapt quickly to counter his variation in pace.
With the India-Pakistan match approaching at Premadasa Stadium, understanding Tariq’s mechanics is essential for India’s top-order strategy. Batters may need to focus on patience and reading the spinner’s subtle cues to avoid being trapped by the deceptive deliveries.
Conclusion: From Inspiration to International Success
Usman Tariq’s journey from a Dubai salesman to a Pakistan national team star underscores the impact of inspiration and perseverance, notably from MS Dhoni’s example. With his unorthodox bowling and proven wicket-taking ability, Tariq is now poised to influence one of cricket’s most high-pressure fixtures: India vs Pakistan in the T20 World Cup 2026.
His story highlights the blend of talent, mental fortitude, and legal mastery of the game, demonstrating that unconventional paths can lead to international recognition and success.
Written by 8jjsports.com News Desk | February 4, 2026
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