Usman Tariq, Ravichandran Ashwin
Pakistan off-spinner Usman Tariq has responded after Ravichandran Ashwin backed Darryl Mitchell’s tactic against his bowling during a PSL 2026 match, as controversy continues over the lead-up to the Pakistan off-spinner and its movement.Tariq, whose work features stopping, pausing, and side-arm release, has been attracting attention lately. Debate has grown over his actions during the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, with opinions divided over their legality and impact.Before India’s match against Pakistan in that tournament, Ashwin suggested that batsmen could get out of their stance when Tariq stops in the lead-up, using the Laws of the Game.
Although this approach was not used in that match, Daryl Mitchell used it during the 2026 Pakistan Super League match between Quetta Gladiators and Peneds in Karachi on Friday.Mitchell’s move led to discussion, and Ashwin backed it.“Now it is up to the umpires and match officials to decide when to pause to deliver the ball. If the pause is not consistent, the batsman has every right to walk away. Captains and opposition batsmen should raise this issue with the umpires and match officials before the match starts.
Well done Mitchell,” Ashwin wrote on X.
Tariq later responded on social media, citing laws regarding unfair play.“Unsportsmanlike conduct (foul play): If a batter does this continuously to intentionally distract a player or waste time, it may be considered unfair play. The umpire has the discretion to warn the batter and, if it persists, issue a penalty (usually 5 penalties to the fielder’s side).”He added as a comment: “Glad to hear 5 penalties. Keep it up.”It is worth noting that in his career, Ashwin has also tried to take pauses in his bowling at times.