Player Stats
Usman Tariq
Bowler (Spin)
Usman Tariq is the “mystery spinner” in Pakistan’s 15-member squad for the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. His inclusion is one of the most talked-about selections, as he brings a highly unconventional bowling style that has already troubled top-tier batters in franchise leagues.
Player Profile
Born: June 7, 1995 (Age 30)
Birthplace: Nowshera, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan
Role: Right-arm Off-break / Mystery Spinner
Height: 6 ft 4 in (193 cm)
Key Feature: A distinctive “baseball-style” action with a dramatic Ashwin-like pause in his run-up. He claims his unique delivery stems from a natural anatomical condition (having “two elbows” or a double-jointed arm), which was cleared by PCB biomechanics testing in May 2025.
Recent Form & 2026 Outlook
International Debut: He made his T20I debut 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: He was a standout in the 2025 Caribbean Premier League (CPL) for Trinbago Knight Riders, finishing as the second-highest wicket-taker with 20 dismissals.
ILT20 Performance: Just before the World Cup, he impressed in the ILT20 2025-26 for the Desert Vipers, notably taking a 3-wicket haul in the Qualifier.
The “MS Dhoni” Inspired Comeback
Usman’s journey is cinematic. After failing to make it in domestic cricket, he moved to the UAE to work as a salesman. He reportedly quit his job and returned to Pakistan to give cricket one last shot after being inspired by the biopic M.S. Dhoni: The Untold Story.
Role in the World Cup
As a “mystery” option, Usman Tariq is expected to be Pakistan’s “wildcard” on the turning tracks of Colombo. His height and high release point, combined with his carrom-ball variations, make him a nightmare for batters who haven’t faced him before. He provides a sharp contrast to the traditional leg-spin of Shadab Khan and the orthodox left-arm spin of Mohammad Nawaz.