“You Need To Have Your Eyes On Them” – Virat Kohli Lauds Umran Malik

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) captain Virat Kohli has been impressed by young Umran Malik, who has been making noises with his express pace. The 21-year-old fast bowler from Jammu & Kashmir, who plays for Sunrisers Hyderabad in the IPL, made his debut on Sunday against Punjab Kings.

Incidentally, Umran was drafted into the squad after T Natarajan was ruled out due to COVID-19 and had to isolate himself. Malik, in a few games for SRH this season, has impressed with his lethal speed, regularly clocking over 150kph. And after RCB lost to SRH by 4 runs on Wednesday in the IPL 2021 encounter, even India captain Kohli did not stop himself from praising the 21-year-old.

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There are fast bowlers, and then there is Umran Malik 🔥#OrangeArmy #OrangeOrNothing #IPL2021 pic.twitter.com/7J0w6yhlIW

— SunRisers Hyderabad (@SunRisers) October 6, 2021

Speaking at the post-match presentation ceremony, Virat Kohli said:

“This tournament throws up talent every year, good to see a guy bowling at 150 clicks. It is important to understand the progress of individuals from hereon,” Kohli said.

“The pool of fast bowlers being strong is always a good sign for Indian cricket and whenever you see talent like this, you are going to have your eyes on them and make sure you maximise their potential which is already being seen at the IPL level,” he added.

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“We hope that one day he plays for Team India” – Umran Malik’s father

Umran Malik had to undergo a lot of hardships to be at the stage where he is now. The pacer, who is the fourth Jammu & Kashmir cricketer to play in the IPL, will play for India one day, dreams his father.

“My son got inclined to cricket when he was just 3 years old. He always dreamt of becoming a professional cricketer. We were so happy when he was picked up in the playing XI by Sunrisers Hyderabad on Sunday. We were glued to the TV and there were tears of joy in my and my wife’s eyes. My son has worked very hard. We always supported him. We hope that one day he plays for Team India,” Umran’s father said to India Today.