The young pacer Umran Malik, hailing from Jammu & Kashmir burst onto the scene with his exceptional pace in the 2022 Indian Premier League (IPL) and is now trying to get back the faith of the national team selectors.
After his breakout IPL season with Sunrisers Hyderabad, which earned him a call-up to the national team, his inconsistent performances and injuries hampered his position in the team. In the 2024 IPL season, the 24-year-old played just one match and bowled a single over. These setbacks have inspired the pacer to improve.
"But it also gave me the time to work on things I wanted to in the practice sessions. I’ve definitely become a better bowler if you ask me. After the IPL, I injured my hamstring and just as I recovered I’m down with dengue,” Umran told Indian Express.
One of the areas Malik is addressing is his control. Despite consistently clocking speeds above 150kph, his economy rate has been a concern. India's former bowling coach, Paras Mhambrey, had highlighted this issue, noting that it led to captain Rohit Sharma losing faith in the young pacer.
“These days I’m bowling a lot with the new ball because I believe swing can make a huge difference at my pace. I want to learn a few things, especially how to formulate a plan and execute it," added Umran.
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I want to keep it simple: Umran Malik
Looking ahead, Malik has his eyes on the upcoming domestic season as a platform to show his improvements. The speedster is excited to once again run in hard and bowl at a rocketing pace and make sure that his line and lengths are accurate.
“I want to keep it simple. My plan is to be ready for the domestic season. If I play more matches, then I would definitely be a better bowler. Even though I played only five Ranji matches, I realised how much I gained out of it. I’m waiting for the Duleep Trophy," he further added
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As the pacer is recovering from dengue, his availability for the prestigious All India Buchi Babu Invitational Tournament starting on August 15 remains doubtful.
"If I play the entire season then I will know where exactly I stand and it will open up opportunities. I’m waiting to hold the red ball in my hand,” Umran concluded.
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