Former India skipper Kapil believes it is too early for the young pace bowling sensation Umran Malik to play for the Indian team. However, he has backed the pacer’s potential and wants him to work hard and develop as a bowler.
Umran Malik made a great debut for the Sunrisers Hyderabad in the Indian Premier League 2022. He impressed the experts and the fans with his ability to trouble the batters with raw pace. Umran picked 22 wickets in fourteen matches, in the tournament. His stats include one five-wicket and one four-wicket haul.
After a brilliant Indian Premier League season, Umran earned a call-up to the Indian team for the T20I series against South Africa. He wasn’t included in the playing XI for the first T20I match. In a conversation with Uncut, Kapil Dev expressed that he feels it is too early for Umran to play for India.
“I am very happy with his selection. But it’s too early… you have to give him at least two-three years at this level. We reserve high praise for a player, then he disappears after one year… but there’s no lack of talent. I want Umran to keep himself in a good environment and continue the hard work at the same pace. By seeing his ability, I don’t think he lacks anything. He needs to develop a great mindset moving forward, and also needs to consult good bowlers and see footage of their bowling,” said Kapil Dev as quoted by Times Now.
“He bowls fast and takes wickets as well. We have seen players who can bowl fast but can’t pick up wickets. This young guy has done both. Maybe that’s why he got a call-up so early. The IPL has opened the door to the national team for many players. But we have to give them two-three years at the international level,” he added.
If you are bowling 150-plus, an economy of 9 isn’t good: Kapil Dev highlights the areas to improve for Umran Malik
Kapil Dev further pointed out that Umran Malik needs to improve his economy rate. In the Indian Premier League 2022 season, the pacer conceded runs at an economy rate of 9.03. The former cricketer expressed that the youngster needs to develop his bowling with time.
“If you are bowling 150-plus, an economy of 9 isn’t a good thing. It should be around 6 to 7. He (Umran) has to improve upon this… try out yorkers and understand the mindset of the batter. But all these things develop with time. He will improve as he bowls against quality batters and hopefully his economy will come down,” said Kapil Dev.
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