In the Indian sub-continent, cricket talents are all over the nation. The talented fast bowler from Jammu and Kashmir, Umran Malik grabbed the limelight after the 2021 IPL season. The speedster’s high speed caught the attention. After that, he made his debut for India. But after some, he has been dropped from the team. India’s bowling coach Paras Mhambrey clarified that Malik’s exclusion from the team is due to his difficulty in maintaining control, despite his ability to bowl at high speeds, which is uncommon among bowlers.
Umran Malik’s Rise:
Umran Malik, the promising fast bowler from Jammu & Kashmir, shot to fame during the 2021 Indian Premier League (IPL) season while playing for Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH). Known for his impressive speeds, regularly reaching over 150 kmph and often bowling in the high 140s, Malik quickly caught the attention of selectors.
His rapid rise saw him fast-tracked into the Indian national team, making his T20I debut in June 2022. Malik’s ability to consistently bowl at 150 kmph made him one of the most talked-about talents in Indian cricket circles. His performances across two IPL seasons not only solidified his reputation but also earned him opportunities to represent India in T20Is and ODIs.
In the 2021 IPL, Umran Malik played 3 matches, taking 2 wickets at an average of 48 and an economy rate of 8.00. In the 2022 IPL, he featured in 14 matches, claiming 22 wickets with an average of 20.18 and an economy rate of 9.03.
Paras Mhambrey’s View on Downfall:
Umran Malik, who initially gained attention for his speed, has faced challenges and is no longer a regular in SRH’s IPL lineup for 2024. Paras Mhambrey, India‘s former bowling coach, highlighted Malik’s struggle with control. Mhambrey emphasized that while pace is valuable, it’s essential for bowlers like Malik to develop control to sustain their careers at the top level.
He said, “I think one has to build talent. Someone having express pace is a rare commodity and you see potential in him. When he burst onto the scene bowling 145-148 (kmph) — I’m not someone who get carried away with the speed gun showing 160kpmh because I don’t think it is real – you realise pace was his strength.”
Later he added, “He was definitely quick and was hitting the high 140kmphs regularly. To bowl consistently at that pace is good and he has done that. But how does he do that? In T20s, if you are not having control, you will struggle. Once you do that, you will lose the faith of the captain.”
Performance in the Ranji Trophy Will be Crucial:
Paras Mhambrey emphasized the importance of Umran Malik playing in the Ranji Trophy to enhance his ability to handle pressure and regain control. Mhambrey suggested that participating in the tournament would allow him to refine his skills and perform effectively even in challenging situations.
He said, “ So one has to gain control and that will happen only if he plays Ranji Trophy. That is why we are pushing him to play Ranji Trophy because when he goes through a season, even under pressure, he will be able to execute his skillset.”
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