Usman Tariq, a controversial bowler, has fired out at his detractors ahead of a likely call-up to Pakistan's T20 World Cup 2026 squad, branding them "illiterate" in the face of frequent claims about his bowling action.  

Tariq, who picked up a hat-trick in Pakistan's recent T20I series against Zimbabwe in Rawalpindi, has been in the spotlight since breaking into the world's T20 leagues.

Tariq has been under the lens since his debut in the Pakistan Super League and for Pakistan, as many onlookers believe his actions are illegal, with detractors stating he exceeds the ICC's allowable 15-degree elbow flexion.

The significant bend in his arm, along with an odd run-up, has sparked controversy about how he continues to play in elite T20 tournaments throughout the world.  

Speaking to The National ahead of the International League T20 (ILT20) final, Tariq denied the charges, claiming that his actions had been cleared through biomechanical testing.

"Lack of knowledge is dangerous," Tariq added, adding that he had two separate biomechanical examinations in Pakistan that confirmed his actions were in accordance with ICC norms.

Tariq mentioned that a physical problem in his bowling arm adds to the impression that he is tossing the ball.

“There are two corners on my [elbow], which make it hard for me to straighten. That creates confusion for spectators,” he added.

He emphasized that bowlers who are suspected of chucking are frequently submitted for testing and, if required, asked to modify their behavior. He said that no such assistance was necessary in his situation.

“When I went for the test, within one week it was cleared. I didn’t get the answer that you have to change your action or improve the degrees. I was confident because I knew that I was not throwing,” Tariq said.

Tariq has played only two T20Is for Pakistan and has taken six wickets. On the other hand, he has flourished in T20 leagues across the world, taking 63 wickets from 39 matches.

Tariq reserved his strongest words for those questioning his legitimacy as a bowler.

“I would love to give a message on this platform that every single person who is commenting on these things should study cricket first. If you don’t have knowledge about cricket and you are just commenting or sharing your thoughts, then illiteracy can kill knowledge. It is better to have knowledge, and then you can comment on anyone,” Tariq concluded.