As the highly anticipated India-Pakistan showdown in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 approaches, former India off-spinner Harbhajan Singh has highlighted the threat posed by Pakistan’s enigmatic spinner Usman Tariq. The clash is scheduled for Sunday, February 15, at the RPS Stadium, Colombo.
Harbhajan, speaking to the media ahead of the match, expressed confidence in India’s chances but cautioned the team against underestimating Tariq’s impact.
“India is a strong team and capable of winning, but Pakistan has a quality spinner, and we need to handle him carefully,” Harbhajan said. “The Indian team should play their natural game without pressure and aim to bring home victory.”
Tariq has emerged as one of the standout performers in the tournament so far. In two matches, he has taken five wickets, and across four T20Is, he has claimed 11 wickets at an exceptional average of 7.90 and an economy rate of 5.93. His unorthodox bowling style has puzzled many batters, making him a difficult opponent for India’s top order.
The spinner’s unusual action recently drew attention during Australia’s T20I series in Pakistan when Australian batter Cameron Green made gestures suggesting doubt over Tariq’s delivery. However, this scrutiny is not new. Tariq’s action was previously reported in PSL 9 and PSL 10 but cleared on both occasions.
Tariq addressed the controversy last year, explaining that the natural bend in his elbows often creates a misleading visual. “There are two corners on my elbow that make it hard to straighten,” he stated. “I underwent tests at accredited labs in Pakistan, and my action was cleared within a week. I never had to change anything because I knew I wasn’t throwing.”
With the T20 World Cup intensifying, Tariq’s consistency and distinctive style could play a decisive role in Pakistan’s performance against India. Analysts suggest that India’s batters must approach him with caution, balancing aggression with control.
The India-Pakistan T20 encounters have historically been high-pressure affairs, often decided by small moments of brilliance. Tariq’s form adds another layer of intrigue to the match, and fans will closely watch how both teams handle the pressure on the field.
Harbhajan’s message is clear: while India remains a formidable unit, ignoring Tariq could be costly. Cricket enthusiasts worldwide are eagerly anticipating the clash, which promises intense action and unforgettable moments.
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