The current crop of Indian fast bowlers is loaded with world-class talent. A group of youngsters have made a splash with his scintillating performances but Umran Malik is a notch above the compatriot bowlers in terms of pace. The 22-year-old from Jammu, Umran Malik, is probably the find of the current IPL season, as he has stunned the world’s top batsmen with his quick pace.
Right-arm fast bowler Umran Malik bowled the fastest delivery in the ongoing IPL at a speed of 157 kmph. He has taken 15 wickets so far in IPL 2022. Sometimes he is successful when it comes to taking wickets, sometimes not, but Umran Malik is unparalleled in the pace panel. Cricket pundits and fans have demanded that he be included in the Indian T20 World Cup squad for Australia. But will their lack of experience come in the way?
Former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar feels Umran Malik will play for India as his performance is world class. However, he has also advised the Sunrisers Hyderabad pacer to stay away from injuries. Akhtar is the first player in the history of cricket to cross the 100 mph milestone. He wants to see Umran Malik enter this unique club.
Akhtar told Sportskeeda, ‘I want his career to be long. Few days back, someone was congratulating me because even after 20 years no one has broken my record of bowling the fastest delivery. However, I said, there must be someone who can break this record. I will be happy if Umran Malik breaks my record. But it needs to be ensured that he doesn’t get injured in the process. I want to see him play for a long time without any injury.
Shoaib Akhtar said, ‘I want to see him on the world stage, because he deserves it. Currently, there are not many people who can cross the 150 kmph mark. We have seen Umran bowling consistently at that pace. I want Umran to take him to 100 mph. I’ll be happy if he enters the 100 mph club. But he has to stay away from injuries which can stall his career.