Virat Kohli's ex-RCB teammate questions Ravichandran Ashwin for backing PAK’s Usman Tariq's long pause in bowling action

Former Royal Challengers Bengaluru wicketkeeper-batter Shreevats Goswami has responded to Indian spin legend Ravichandran Ashwin in an ongoing debate about Pakistan spinner Usman Tariq’s unusual bowling action in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026.

Shreevats Goswami on Ravinchandran Ashwin

Tariq has been in the spotlight because of the noticeable “pause” in his run-up before delivering the ball. Many fans and experts are questioning whether this pause affects the game's flow. Ashwin, who is India’s second-highest wicket-taker, shared his thoughts on the issue. He suggested that if people are questioning Tariq’s action, then similar standards should be applied to other innovations in cricket, such as the switch-hit.

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Goswami, however, disagreed and focused mainly on the pause in Tariq’s delivery. He pointed out that this specific part of the action is what has raised concerns among fans and analysts.

"Reverse sweep was first played in 1964 and it’s still debatable ? Ok. We are talking about the “ pause “ here. “ PAUSE “. A batter doesn’t take stance, look away, pause & then reset before the ball is delivered. He/she is absolutely ready for whatever the bowler has to offer. Let’s not make this bowler vs batter. It’s the PAUSE. If 1 sec pause is ok, then 2 is too , then 10 is too. Cricket is a game of continuity. Pause breaks the rhythm of the game & if you look closely. He kind of “bends his arms “ when he bowls the faster one. Hopefully the ICC finds clarity before this becomes the next grey area" Shreevats Goswami responds to Ashwin's social media post.

Tariq's performance against USA

Usman Tariq played a crucial role in Pakistan’s win over the USA in their second group match of the T20 World Cup 2026. Captain Salman Agha chose to bring him into the attack in the 12th over, at a time when the required run rate was starting to rise.

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Tariq kept things tight and didn’t allow the batters to score freely. Although he was hit for a six by Milind Kumar, he bounced back strongly and dismissed him in the 16th over, claiming his first-ever wicket in a T20 World Cup.

He then returned to bowl the second-last over of the innings and struck twice more, removing Harmeet Singh and Mohammad Mohsin. His disciplined spell played a big role in Pakistan sealing a comfortable 32-run victory.