India, Feb. 11 -- The run-up is bizarrely short. He staggers in, almost diagonally, veering past the cutting line before pausing for what feels like an eternity. Then comes the sling, reminiscent of Lasith Malinga (not in pace, of course), and the release, almost shielding the umpire's view. Pakistan's Usman Tariq has attracted plenty of attention for his unusual bowling action. Much of that scrutiny, from keyboard warriors, a few experts, and even cricketers like Cameron Green, has centred on his release.

Earlier this month, a visibly frustrated Green mimicked Tariq's action after being dismissed by him during a bilateral T20I series in Lahore, seemingly hinting at chucking. England batter Tom Banton expressed similar concerns during th...