Umran Malik has been out of action for a long time due to injury and a bout with dengue but the speedster is working hard towards a comeback to competitive cricket in Bengaluru. Malik set the speed guns on fire in the Indian Premier League (IPL), went to play for the country in white-ball formats but failed to cement the spot in the side.
The last season of the IPL didn’t help his cause as the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) didn’t play him and he bowled just one over in the cash-rich league. Malik, released by SRH ahead of the mega auction, was disappointed on not getting enough chances in the IPL but is ready to give his best whenever opportunity comes,
“Of course, I would feel disappointed if I have to sit on the bench,
He will be the fastest bowler of the league and he will feel disappointment when he sits on the bench.
but when I return, I’ll give my 100% and deliver wickets for my team,” says Malik in an exclusive chat with TimesofIndia.com.
Malik had a breakthrough 2022 season in the IPL where he picked 22 wickets in 14 matches. The run included a five-wicket haul against Gujarat Titans who won the title that season. The J&K seamer is not thinking too much about what has happened in the past and has made peace with the franchise’s decisions in the season gone by.
“Franchise, management and the coaches made their decisions because we were winning. It’s fine… they did what they thought was best,” says Malik.
After warming the bench, the hamstring injury and bout with dengue hampered Malik’s plans but he has now fully recovered and is set to feature in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and Vijay Hazare Trophy for J&K.
He feels that injuries are an inevitable part of a sportsman’s journey and expressed determination to return stronger and make a significant impact on return.
“
I don’t think the main will fade off.
I’m a player and injuries are part and parcel of an athlete’s career.
I know that when I come back I know that I will play again
I have full confidence in myself,” says Malik.
Malik dismissed suggestions that so much time on the bench with SRH impacted his rhythm.
“
I did not say that it happened on their (SRH) face.
. Not playing does affect rhythm to some extent, but when I make my comeback, it will be in full rhythm.
Whichever team puts me forward, I will give or perform at 120%.
I have complete belief in myself,” says Malik.
During the time away from competitive cricket, Malik has been working on adding more variations to his bowling, including slower balls and yorkers, and aiming to become a complete and unpredictable bowler.
“I’ve been working on slower balls, good yorkers, and improving my variations. I can’t share everything, but I’ve focused a lot on honing my variations,” reveals Malik.
When asked about the competition with Mayank YadavIndia’s latest pace sensation, Malik expressed a refreshing perspective. He emphasised that his focus is not on individual competition but on representing India and enjoying the game. He wants to play with Yadav and do well for the team.
“
Why do you have to compete with anyone?
My goal is to play cricket, not to compete. He will play, and so will I, for India. It’ll feel great if Mayank and I play together for India,” concludes Malik.
