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MS Dhoni biopic behind Usman Tariq's rise: PAK star credits Bollywood movie for career revival

Akshita Patel

Usman Tariq's comeback has MS Dhoni connection [Source: @TKRiders, @CricCrazyJohns/X.com]Usman Tariq's comeback has MS Dhoni connection [Source: @TKRiders, @CricCrazyJohns/X.com]

In a story that feels straight out of a Bollywood movie, Pakistan's mystery spinner Usman Tariq has made an incredible return to professional cricket. And it happened due to a biopic called, 'MS Dhoni: The Untold Story.'

Just a few years ago, Tariq was working as a salesman in Dubai, having given up on his cricketing dreams after not being selected for domestic teams.  

But all of that changed after he saw the movie based on Dhoni's life. The journey of the Indian legend from a ticket collector to a World Cup-winning captain reignited Tariq's passion for the game.

Usman Tariq has MS Dhoni to thank for his dramatic comeback

Talking to Telecom Asia Sport, Pakistan spinner Usman Tariq said he returned to his home town after watching 'MS Dhoni: The Untold Story' as it ignited a fire in him.

“I left the game after I did not get selected, and was working as a salesman in a purchasing company in Dubai. There I watched MS Dhoni: The Untold Story and it inspired me a lot. I left the job and came back to Pakistan to pursue cricket again,” Tariq said.

Tariq's gamble paid off in style. In 2025, he left a mark on everyone during the Caribbean Premier League (CPL), taking 20 wickets and finishing second in the tournament's wicket-taker standings behind veteran spinner Imran Tahir.

His performances earned him a maiden call-up to Pakistan’s T20I squad for the ongoing series against South Africa.

Tariq opens up on his controversial action

What makes Usman Tariq stand out isn't just his story but also his unique bowling action. His delivery includes a dramatic pause in his stride before flicking the ball sidearm, a style reminiscent of Ravichandran Ashwin.

The action initially caused controversy during the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2024 season, when it was reported for a suspected illegal action. However, after biomechanical testing in Lahore, Tariq was cleared to bowl.

Interestingly, Tariq says his unusual action comes from a physical peculiarity. 

"I am born with a unique right elbow which has two corners instead of one. That’s just how my arm is," he added.

Now, Usman Tariq stands on the brink of realising his dream, which is representing Pakistan at the international level.