T20 World Cup 2026 | ‘Why are restrictions only limited to bowlers?’: Ashwin backs Tariq

Usman Tariq and R Ashwin. Pics/AFP, Ashish Raje

Former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has come out in support of Pakistan's Usman Tariq after the latter's bowling action came under scrutiny during the T20 World Cup 2026, saying "why are the restrictions only limited to the bowler?"

Tariq impressed with figures of 3-27 in Pakistan's Group A win over the USA on Tuesday.

Former India cricketer Shreevats Goswami criticised Tariq's pause during his run-up. "Even football doesn't allow players to pause during a penalty run-up anymore. How is this ok? Action - all good. But pause? That too while loading to deliver. This can't be continued seriously!" Goswami wrote on X.

"Agree football doesn't allow it! While the batter can be allowed to switch-hit or reverse without informing the umpire or bowler after him/her commits to start batting on one side, why are the restrictions only limited to the bowler?" Ashwin responded.

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