Former Australian batter Usman Khawaja has publicly supported Pakistan spinner Usman Tariq after a controversial moment during the second T20I between Australia and Pakistan triggered widespread discussion online. The incident occurred when Cameron Green was dismissed by Tariq and was later seen making a hand gesture on his way back to the pavilion. Social media users quickly interpreted the action as an allegation of chucking which reignited scrutiny around Tariq’s bowling action.
Usman Tariq has previously faced questions regarding his action during the Pakistan Super League but was cleared on both occasions after undergoing biomechanical testing. Despite this Green’s gesture led to divided opinions among fans and pundits with debates intensifying across platforms.
Khawaja who recently retired from international cricket following the final Ashes Test in January 2026 stepped in to defend the spinner. He stressed that being labelled a chucker carries a heavy stigma in cricket and urged people to show perspective and restraint. Khawaja pointed out that Tariq has already been tested and cleared by authorities and therefore should not be subjected to repeated public doubt.
Tariq played only one match in the series and finished with impressive figures of 2 for 16. He has been named in Pakistan’s T20 World Cup squad and is expected to be an important part of the team’s campaign. Speaking earlier Tariq explained that his action appears unusual due to biological limitations in his elbow which prevent full straightening. He reaffirmed that lab tests confirmed his action is legal and that he has never been asked to modify it.
Pakistan went on to defeat Australia 3-0 in the T20I series before both teams travelled to Sri Lanka for the upcoming T20 World Cup which begins on February 7.