Former Indian cricketer Harbhajan Singh expressed optimism regarding India's prospects against Pakistan, emphasizing the distinctiveness of Pakistani spinner Usman Tariq. He noted that effectively managing Tariq could be pivotal, as the bowler possesses a unique style and a range of variations that make him challenging to face. The 28-year-old off-spinner has claimed 11 wickets in just four T20 internationals, boasting an impressive average of 7.90. In the recent T20 World Cup 2026 match against the USA, Tariq showcased his skills by taking 3 wickets for 27 runs in 4 overs. His unconventional bowling action, which includes a brief pause, has sparked discussions about its legality.

Harbhajan's Experience with Tariq in ILT20

In a conversation with the media, Harbhajan shared his observations of Tariq during the ILT20 tournament in Dubai. He remarked, "I have seen him bowl in the ILT20, and he stood out as the best bowler for me. Whenever he had the chance, he consistently took wickets for his team."

The Threat Posed by Usman Tariq

Harbhajan elaborated on what sets Tariq apart from other spinners, highlighting his impressive variety and unconventional techniques. He stated, "He is not like the typical spinners. His variations are remarkable, and he keeps surprising the batsmen. While some may think he just stands and delivers, it's not that simple. Anyone can bowl, but having diverse variations is what makes him special."

"Moreover, he is difficult to hit, especially on larger grounds and slower pitches, where he becomes even more formidable."

Advice for the Indian Team

As the India-Pakistan match approaches, Harbhajan advised the Indian players to exercise caution when facing a bowler they have not encountered before. He stated, "It's essential to be mindful when playing against someone unfamiliar."

Despite this, he expressed confidence in India's capability to tackle the challenge. "If India can manage to contain him and avoid giving away significant wickets, I believe they have the talent to defeat Pakistan, as there are numerous match-winners in the Indian lineup," Singh concluded.