Pakistan’s rising spinner Usman Tariq sparked fresh controversy during the ongoing T20 series against Australia after posting a “crybaby” meme on social media following a heated exchange with Australian all-rounder Cameron Green over his bowling action. The incident has ignited debate over sportsmanship, bowling legality and player conduct amid Pakistan’s dominant display in the series.
The meme appeared on Tariq’s social accounts shortly after Green appeared to mimic his bowling action as Green walked off the field after being dismissed. The gesture was widely interpreted as an accusation that Tariq’s action was illegal, drawing sharp reactions from fans, analysts and former players.
Green’s Gesture Causes Stir
The moment unfolded during the second T20I at Gaddafi Stadium, where Pakistan thumped Australia by a massive margin. After Green was dismissed, video footage and fan posts on social media showed him gesturing in a way that many interpreted as suggesting that Tariq’s bowling was “chucking” — a term used when a bowler’s arm extends illegally during delivery.
While some commentators described the gesture as frustration on Green’s part, others saw it as unprofessional, especially given the context of a heavy defeat for Australia. Australia’s top order struggled on a spin-friendly pitch, and Tariq finished with key wickets that helped bowl Australia out.
Tariq’s Response and History of Clearance
Rather than let the controversy die, Tariq responded by sharing a meme depicting a crying child — which many perceived as a direct jab at Green’s reaction following his dismissal. The meme went viral across social media platforms, intensifying discussions among cricket fans.
Tariq’s bowling action has been scrutinised before, but he has consistently defended it and cleared official testing on two separate occasions after being reported for suspect action. During his time in franchise leagues, English batter Tom Banton once raised concerns about Tariq’s action, prompting public discussion. Tariq responded at the time by explaining: “There are two corners on my (elbow) which make it hard for me to straighten. That makes confusion for the spectators. I have given two tests at labs in Pakistan, and my action was cleared.”
Cricket broadcaster Paul Dennett also weighed in, criticising the online backlash and expressing support for Tariq. “Usman Tariq deserves better. His action has twice been tested — and cleared. Today should be a day to celebrate contributing to a win, not getting blasted on social media,” Dennett wrote on X, adding: “Cricket needs to handle this issue better. And people need to stop being cruel.”
Rules and Reactions
Under International Cricket Council (ICC) regulations, a bowler’s elbow extension must not exceed 15 degrees, and bowlers with unusual actions are often biomechanically tested to ensure compliance. Critics argue that cricket must balance fair play with respect for players’ natural abilities, especially when actions have been formally cleared.
The episode has overshadowed Pakistan’s dominant 90-run victory, which put them 2–0 up in the series ahead of the final match. Australia’s captain acknowledged his team’s struggles: “Pakistan outplayed us… we weren’t able to build partnerships today, so there are some really good lessons for us,” he said after the second loss.
As the controversy continues to trend online, the debate over bowling actions and on-field conduct remains a key talking point among cricket enthusiasts worldwide.
