12/02/2026
Usman Tariq is a right-arm mystery spinner whose rise to the Pakistan national team is often described as "cinematic." Known for his highly unconventional bowling action, he has quickly become a significant figure in Pakistan's T20 lineup.
Personal Profile
Born: June 7, 1995 (30 years old) in Nowshera, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan.
Role: Right-arm Off-break / Mystery Spinner.
Height: 6 ft 4 in (193 cm).
Nickname: Usman.
The "Cinematic" Journey
Tariq’s path to professional cricket was not traditional. After failing to break into domestic cricket initially, he moved to the UAE and worked as a salesman for a purchasing company, effectively quitting the sport.
His return to Pakistan was inspired by watching the biopic "M.S. Dhoni: The Untold Story," which reignited his passion for the game. He resigned from his job in Dubai to return home and give cricket one final attempt—a gamble that eventually led to his international debut.
Bowling Style & Controversy
The Action: He uses a distinctive "baseball-style" delivery with a dramatic, Ashwin-like pause in his run-up.
Anatomical Feature: Tariq attributes his unique delivery to a natural anatomical condition, stating he was born with a unique right elbow structure (sometimes described as "double-jointed").
Clearing the Action: His unconventional style led to him being reported for a suspect action during the 2024 and 2025 PSL seasons. However, he was officially cleared by both the PCB and ICC after biomechanical testing showed his action was within the legal limits.
Career Highlights
International Debut: Made his T20I debut for Pakistan on November 1, 2025, against South Africa, taking 2/26.
Hat-trick Hero: In November 2025, he claimed a T20I hat-trick against Zimbabwe, finishing with match-winning figures of 4/18.
Franchise Success: * CPL 2025: Starred for Trinbago Knight Riders, finishing as the second-highest wicket-taker of the tournament with 20 dismissals.
PSL: Represents the Quetta Gladiators.
ILT20: Plays for the Desert Vipers.
Recent Stats (T20Is)
Matches: 4
Wickets: 11
Best Bowling: 4/18
Economy Rate: Under 6.00
He is currently considered a "wildcard" for Pakistan in the 2026 T20 World Cup, particularly on turning tracks where his height and carrom-ball variations make him difficult to read.
Would you like me to compare his stats with another spinner in your squad, like Abrar Ahmed or Shadab Khan?