'Cleared by the ICC': Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha backs 'trump card' Usman Tariq amid debate on action

NEW DELHI: Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha said on Saturday that spinner Usman Tariq has been cleared by the International Cricket Council (ICC) and is not affected by the debate around his bowling action, ahead of the India-Pakistan T20 World Cup match on Sunday.

Usman, 28, has taken 11 wickets in four T20Is at an average of 7.90, including a four-wicket haul. His sidearm action, which includes a brief pause before release, has led to questions over its legality, with some alleging that he is throwing.

Usman played against the USA and returned figures of 3 for 27 in four overs.

Speaking at the pre-match press conference before the India game, Agha said the spinner remains focused and described him as a key option for the team.




"You all have made Usman Tariq a big name. For us, all 15 players are important. He has been bowling well. You can definitely say that he is a trump card for us. He has been cleared by the ICC, so I don't understand why everyone is discussing him. Usman doesn't get affected by these things. He is fine. He doesn't care about these things," Agha said.

Agha also referred to Pakistan’s record against India in T20 World Cups, saying past results cannot be changed.

"Definitely, we do not have a good record against the Indians, but we can't change history, and every day is a new day."

India and Pakistan have faced each other eight times in T20 World Cup history. India have won seven of those matches, while Pakistan have one victory.

The match between India and Pakistan will be played at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo on Sunday.

Both teams have played two matches each in the tournament and won both. India has beaten USA and Namibia, while Pakistan has defeated the Netherlands and USA.

India, led by Suryakumar Yadav, are at the top of Group A with four points and a net run rate of +3.050. Pakistan are second with four points and a net run rate of +0.932.

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