NEW DELHI: Pakistan's young pacer Zaman Khan faced scrutiny over his unusual slingshot bowling action during a Big Bash League clash on Saturday.
Australia's veteran batter David Warner, who scored a composed 82 for Sydney Thunder, appeared visibly unsettled by Zaman, repeatedly questioning his action and bringing it to the attention of the on-field umpires.
Zaman Khan's first ball for the Brisbane Heat didn't quite go to plan 😅 #BBL15 pic.twitter.com/gP8I5iQfSJ
— KFC Big Bash League (@BBL) January 10, 2026
Zaman, drafted into Brisbane Heat as a replacement for the injured Pakistan captain Shaheen Shah Afridi, had a tough debut outing, conceding 32 runs in his three overs.
Despite the concerns surrounding his action, Brisbane Heat emerged victorious, securing a comfortable seven-wicket win.
Former Australian international Usman Khawaja, Warner's long-time opening partner, anchored the chase with a brisk 78.
"Like a four-year-old bowling. It stays so low."
— KFC Big Bash League (@BBL) January 10, 2026
David Warner on Zaman Khan's action. #BBL15 pic.twitter.com/dv9Bzw4G5v
The episode evoked memories of a similar controversy involving another Pakistan fast bowler, Muhammad Hasnain, who faced questions over his action during a previous Big Bash season after objections were raised by Marcus Stoinis.
Hasnain was subsequently suspended, underwent an extended rehabilitation process to remodel his action, and saw his international career significantly disrupted as a result.
