Fairness between bowlers and batters
Ashwin also raised a broader question about balance in modern cricket. He pointed out that bowlers are subjected to intense scrutiny over minor technical details, while batters are free to play switch hits and reverse hits without informing either the umpire or the bowler in advance.
In his view, the game must ensure that both sides are treated fairly under the laws.
Why the issue resurfaced
The controversy gained fresh momentum after Tariq’s match winning spell of 3 for 27 in Pakistan’s victory over the United States in Colombo on February 10. While his performance drew praise, it also reignited concerns over his action.
Tariq has been reported in the past, including during the Pakistan Super League and in a series against Australia. However, he has cleared official biomechanical testing on those occasions.
For Ashwin, the message was clear. If a bowler has passed the required scientific tests, the debate should end there and the focus should remain on performance rather than perception.