Former Pakistan spinner Saeed Ajmal has urged the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to support mystery spinner Usman Tariq amid ongoing discussions surrounding his bowling action.

Speaking in an exclusive interview with PakPassion, Ajmal reflected on his own experience of being banned for an illegal bowling action and appealed to the PCB to stand behind players facing scrutiny.

“I request the PCB to take proper care of Usman Tariq and its players. If there are any concerns, they should communicate them through official channels,” Ajmal said.

The former off-spinner stressed that cricketers should not be left alone to deal with criticism and media pressure.

“At times, media personnel openly criticize or insult players, and the PCB remains silent,” Ajmal stated, adding that the value and reputation of national players must be protected.

Ajmal’s remarks come as Usman Tariq continues to attract attention over his unusual delivery rhythm. During the 2026 Pakistan Super League (PSL 11), controversy erupted during a match between Quetta Gladiators and Rawalpindiz when New Zealand batter Daryl Mitchell repeatedly stepped away from the crease while facing the spinner, leading to an on-field disagreement and renewed debate over his bowling style.

The Quetta Gladiators spinner was also previously reported for a suspect bowling action during PSL 10 before later clearing his assessment at the PCB-accredited biomechanics laboratory in Lahore.

His action has also sparked reactions from several high-profile cricket figures in recent months. According to reports, Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin and umpire Anil Chaudhary both stated that Tariq’s action falls within the laws of the game.

Ajmal, who himself faced suspension from international bowling in 2014 at the peak of his career, said such situations can be emotionally difficult for players and require institutional backing.

“If you have developed a player into a star and the world is recognizing him, then you should stand behind him as well,” he added.

Drawing from his own experience, Ajmal urged the PCB to take greater responsibility for protecting players facing public pressure and controversy.

His comments have added to the broader discussion over how cricket boards handle suspect bowling action cases and support players dealing with public and media scrutiny.

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