How MS Dhoni's biopic inspired Pakistan salesman to become full-time cricketer, now set to make T20I debut

How MS Dhoni's biopic inspired Pakistan salesman to become full-time cricketer. (Photo: X)

Usman​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ Tariq at one point gave up his dream of playing cricket and started working as a salesman in Dubai. A talented mystery spinner, Tariq, after feeling neglected due to a lack of selection, decided to leave the game altogether.

However, destiny changed when he saw MS Dhoni: The Untold Story — the biopic of the legendary Indian captain. The movie, which shows Dhoni’s hardships and way to the top, made Tariq’s love for cricket come alive again and it was a total life changer for him.

Inspired by Dhoni’s journey, Tariq decided to give up his safe job, went back to Pakistan, and took another chance at cricket. Almost five years down the road, he has now made a breakthrough due to his relentless effort and is now close to realizing his dream as he has been selected for the Pakistan’s T20I squad for the home series against South ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌Africa.

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“I left the game after I did not get selected and started working as a salesman in a purchasing company in Dubai,” Tariq told telecomasia. “One day, I watched M.S. Dhoni: The Untold Story, and it inspired me a lot. I left the job and went back to Pakistan to pursue cricket again.”

Before his national selection, Tariq had already made waves in the Pakistan Super League (PSL), not just for his performances but also for his unusual bowling action. The action sparked debate, with the spinner being reported several times for a suspect action before being cleared after professional assessment.

Now 27, Tariq explains that his distinctive action stems from a physical condition.

Having endured a long and testing journey, Tariq remains focused on what lies ahead.

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

“I just want to play for Pakistan and perform. It took a long time to reach here, but every setback has made me stronger,” he said.