Pakistan off-spinner Usman Tariq, who is currently making headlines in the T20 World Cup 2026 because of his unique action, revealed that the legendary wicketkeeper batter MS Dhoni's biopic “M.S. Dhoni: The Untold Story” inspired him to leave his salesman job and pursue his cricket aspirations again.
How MS Dhoni inspired Usman Tariq?
MS Dhoni is arguably the best captain to lead India, as the Men in Blue won all three major ICC trophies, and he achieved almost everything a captain could hope for. Notably, Dhoni was the second-ever captain after Kapil Dev to win the World Cup for India. Considering his contributions and achievements, Bollywood made his biopic, which was released on 30 September 2016, four years before his retirement.
“I had left behind thinking of making a name in cricket, but one day I watched this film and it convinced me that I can also do the same,” Tariq told AFP.
Usman Tariq's brilliant bowling stats
Usman, who made his international debut on November 1 against South Africa, has represented Pakistan in four T20Is, where he picked up 11 wickets at an impressive average of 7.90, including a four-wicket haul.
Why is Usman Tariq's bowling action is under scrutiny?
However, he has also come under scrutiny because of his unusual sidearm bowling action. He pauses briefly before releasing the ball, which has raised questions about whether his action is legal. Some critics believe he may be chucking, while others feel he is almost throwing the ball, sparking a wider debate.
ALSO READ: Sunil Gavaskar ends debate around Usman Tariq's controversial bowling action ahead of India vs Pakistan T20 World Cup 2026 clash
Usman Tariq on his bowling action
After facing a lot of criticism for his bowling action, Usman Tariq issued a clarification that he has two corners of my bowling arm elbow, which is rare, and the 28-year-old has also added that he got a clean chit on his action from the International Cricket Council (ICC)
“I have two corners of my bowling arm elbow, which is rare,” Tariq told. “I have been cleared twice so I am confident that it’s legal. I have struggled this far and am not worried about such baseless questions.”
Usman Tariq's upcoming outing
Tariq will now be seen featuring in the Pakistan T20 World Cup 2026 clash against India, which will take place in Colombo on February 15.