‘Hold on’: Usman Tariq reacts after Ashwin backs PSL batsman to walk away

Pakistan spinner Usman Tariq has reacted after Ravichandran Ashwin backed Daryl Mitchell’s strategy against his bowling action in PSL 2026, while the debate over Pakistan spinner’s run-up and action continues.Tarik’s movement, characterized by stops and pauses and side-arm releases, has attracted attention of late. Discussions surrounding his actions have intensified during the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, with people divided over its legality and impact.Before India’s match against Pakistan in that match, Ashwin had suggested that as per the rules of the game, batsmen can leave their stance when Tariq pauses in the run-up. While this method was not used in that match, Daryl Mitchell used it during the Pakistan Super League 2026 match between Quetta Gladiators and Piniz on Friday in Karachi.Mitchell’s move sparked discussions and Ashwin also expressed his support.“It is now up to the umpire and the match umpire to decide the duration of the pause for his delivery. If the pause is inconsistent, then the batsman has every right to walk away. The captain and the opposing batsmen should raise this issue with the umpire and match umpire before the match begins. Well done, Mitchell,” Ashwin wrote on X.Tariq later responded on social media, referring to laws related to unfair competition.“Unsportsmanlike conduct (foul): If a batsman does this continuously with the intention of deliberately distracting the bowler or wasting time, it may be considered an unfair play. The umpire has the discretion to warn the batsman and impose a penalty (usually 5 runs to the fielding side) if this continues to occur.”“Good to hear the five-point penalty. Keep it up,” he added in his comments.It is worth noting that Ashwin has also tried to pause his bowling action from time to time throughout his career.