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Umran Malik is grappling with significant challenges in his bid to regain a spot in the Indian national team. Despite his breathtaking pace and his remarkable ability to regularly bowl over 150 kph, Malik was completely overlooked by the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) during the IPL 2024.
His career has been hindered by issues with his economy rate. Although his raw speed has previously captivated both fans and critics, his difficulty in maintaining control and consistency has resulted in a high number of runs conceded. This lack of control has ultimately cost him his place in Team India, and he was only able to feature in a single game for SRH during the IPL 2024.
Umran Malik Outlines Strategy to Address IPL Challenges and Reclaim Spot in the Indian Team
Previously, former India bowling coach Paras Mhambrey pointed out that Umran Malik’s inconsistency and high economy rate had led to a loss of confidence from captain Rohit Sharma. As the new domestic season draws near, Malik is diligently working to rectify these issues.
The pacer from Jammu and Kashmir has shifted his focus to sharpening his skills in preparation for the significant tour to Australia later this year. He has been dedicating substantial effort to mastering swing bowling with the new ball and is also working on perfecting his yorkers, aiming to build the confidence needed to use them reliably in matches.
Malik is keen to integrate seamlessly into the team’s bowling strategy and to support his fellow bowlers effectively. The upcoming domestic season represents a pivotal opportunity for him to demonstrate his improved skills and regain his place in the Indian squad. To enhance his game, Malik is collaborating with former Indian cricketer Irfan Pathan to refine his bowling techniques and introduce new elements to his approach.
I’m bowling a lot with the new ball: Umran Malik
When Umran Malik joins the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru, his focus transitions to different areas of his development. At the NCA, he is concentrating on enhancing his fitness, honing his tactical strategies, and mastering new bowling variations with the guidance of Troy Cooley. Cooley, who has previously been the bowling coach for both England and Australia, brings valuable expertise to Malik’s training.
Umran Malik was quoted as saying by The Indian Express: “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. If you have that, then you will be better prepared to handle the challenges.”
Malik signed off by saying, “When I’m bowling in a match, it is not about myself or what I do. I’ve got to fit into the bowling group and their plans and complement them. So, I need to be equipped on that front. Even with the new ball, I’m trying to bowl yorkers because if I’m able to execute it properly, then I will get the confidence to bowl it all the time. You need to find ways to surprise the batsmen.”