Umran Malik, a rising Indian pace bowler, said he has always admired Jasprit Bumrah, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, and Mohammed Shami, but that his action is nothing like that of former Pakistani bowler Waqar Younis.
Brett Lee, a former Australian speedster, has praised Umran, saying he reminds him of Waqar in his prime. Umran, on the other hand, cited the Indian pace-trio as a source of inspiration when he was younger.
Umran Malik Misses Out Zaheer Khan from his Idol List
After a sensational season with the Sunrisers Hyderabad in the Indian Premier League (IPL), Umran Malik has taken Indian and international cricket by storm. Umran impressed everyone with his lethal pace in his first full season, earning him a first call-up to the national side for the T20I series against South Africa, as well as making a mark across borders. His quick action has drawn comparisons to former Pakistan pacer Waqar Younis.
Umran, on the other hand, downplayed the comparisons, claiming that he hasn’t closely followed Waqar and has a natural action. Umran also named his three fast bowling idols but Waqar was not among them.
“I have not followed Waqar Younis. I have a natural action. My idols include (Jasprit) Bumrah, (Mohammed) Shami, and Bhuvneshwar (Kumar) Bhai. I used to follow them when I was playing while coming through the ranks,” Umran Malik said.
“There’s no point getting carried away. If it is destined to happen, it will Inshallah. I want to do my best for my country. I have got an opportunity in these five (T20I) matches (against South Africa). My goal will be that we win all five matches, I perform well and single-handedly win those games for India,” he added.
After his impressive ability to consistently go over 150 kmph was seen in the league, Umran became the talk of the town. He also bowled the second-fastest delivery in the IPL (157 kmph) and won the fastest delivery award in each of his 14 games.
“Firstly, I am really grateful for all the love and respect that I have been getting from all over India. Relatives and other people keep coming home, it feels very good. I have been a bit busy after the IPL, but have not missed training and practice,” he said.
