Tim David became the second Australia batter to question Pakistan spinner Usman Tariq’s bowling action after being dismissed by him in the men’s Hundred on Friday.
David was dismissed while playing for Trent Rockets against Birmingham Phoenix, edging a full delivery outside off stump through to the wicketkeeper. The Australia batter then seemingly suggested to the umpire to call it a no-ball, potentially for action. He also instinctively called for a review before deciding against it. The umpire did not support the appeal, and David walked off.
According to the MCC Law 21.2, a delivery is fair if the ball is not thrown. It specifies that, once the bowler’s arm reaches shoulder level in the delivery swing, the elbow must not be partially or completely straightened before the ball leaves the hand. The striker's end umpire has primary responsibility for judging the fairness of the delivery, although the bowler’s end umpire can also call a no-ball if they believe the ball has been thrown.
David seemed to be suggesting that Tariq’s action did not meet the laws, and hence was eligible for it to be called a no-ball.
Cameron Green also questioned Tariq’s action
Tariq’s action has been under constant scrutiny, with many questioning its legality. During the 2024 Pakistan Super League, umpires Asif Yaqoob and Richard Illingworth reported him for a suspect bowling action to the match referee. His action was reported again by on-field umpires during the 2025 PSL.
Australia all-rounder Cameron Green also appeared to question Tariq’s action during the second T20I between Australia and Pakistan earlier this year. After being dismissed by the spinner, Green mimicked a baseball-style throwing motion, referring to his action.
Tariq has previously stated his unusual action is a result of his physical structure. Speaking to MYK Sports in April 2025, he said: “My action is unique because my body dimensions are unique. My body frame is not like the common person.”
“I do have two elbows in my arm,” he added. “My arm bends naturally. I have got this tested and cleared. Everyone feels I bend my arms and all that. My bent arm is a biological issue.”
Tariq had also responded to Green’s gesture with a cheeky post on Instagram stories, with a video of a young boy beginning to cry in the middle of an argument. He added a caption: “After getting out..”
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