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A major bowling controversy has overshadowed the 2025-26 ILT20 playoffs after MI Emirates batter Tom Banton publicly accused Desert Vipers spinner Usman Tariq of an illegal bowling action during the tense Qualifier 1 clash on December 30 in Abu Dhabi.
Severe storm breaks out at ILT20: Mumbai Indians’ Tom Banton blames Pakistani spinner Usman Tariq
Tom Banton on Tuesday accused Pakistan spinner Usman Tariq of bowling during the ILT20 Qualifier 1 between MI Emirates and Desert Vipers at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi. The incident took place on the 12th when Tariq fired Banton.
The England star’s dismissal played a key role in ending MI Emirates’ dream of qualifying for the ILT20 finals, as they now need to try their luck in Qualifier 2 to stand a chance of securing a Qualifier 1 rematch.
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The incident: the dismissal that sparked the argument
Banton was dismantling the attack aggressively with a total of 63 from 27 balls, but Tariq managed to get him out, and the wicket was a highlight of the match at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi. Tariq bowled a slow ball which was not very full and was wide outside the off stump.
It looked like a carrom-style delivery, and Banton tried to play a pull shot, but he didn’t time it well. The ball flew high in the air towards the far area, where Desert Vipers captain Sam Curran produced a brilliant catch to end the stay of another England star.
Tom Banton’s explosive accusation in the heat of the moment
Usman Tariq celebrated the wicket aggressively, showing his enthusiasm and joy during Qualifier 1 in Abu Dhabi. At the same time, Banton was visibly heard shouting, “Throw the ball!” » repeatedly towards the bowler, a direct accusation of throwing.
The predator is caught! 🏹
Usman Tariq makes his debut by stopping Tom Banton’s merciless assault. ☝️#DPWorldILT20 #AllInForCricket #WhereTheWorldPlays pic.twitter.com/ir5aJqYBfq
– International T20 League (@ILT20Official) December 30, 2025
Banton just called out to Tariq as he threw the ball after his release. I can’t blame him #ILT20
– Cricket Tamizhan (@CricketTamizhan) December 30, 2025
It now remains to be seen whether the referees will react to Banton’s claim and take action against Tariq. There is no official word yet on the incident.
What is chuck?
In cricket, “chucking” means that a bowler bends and straightens his elbow too much while throwing the ball. Instead of bowling with an outstretched arm, it’s more like throwing the ball.
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The rules only allow a very small bend in the elbow, up to 15 degrees. If the elbow straightens more than that, it is illegal because it helps the bowler get extra speed or spin, which is unfair.
Match officials can declare there is no ball if they spot it, then the bowler is sent to ICC tests to check his action. If the action is found to be illegal and is not corrected, the bowler may be banned from playing matches until it is corrected.
Match Summary MI Emirates vs Desert Vipers
Andries Gous (120) smashed a brilliant century as Desert Vipers posted 233/1, and that proved too much for MI Emirates who suffered a 45-run defeat in ILT20 Qualifier 1. Chasing 234, MI Emirates managed 188/7 despite Banton’s 63. Debutant Usman Tariq starred with three wickets, sealing the Vipers’ place in the ILT20 final.
