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,
league ka sabse tez bowler hoga aur wo bench par baethaega toh disappointment toh feel hoga hi
, 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.
"
Mujhe nahi lagta ki main fade off hogaya
, I’m a player and injuries are part and parcel of an athlete’s career.
Mujhe pata hai jab mae wapas aaunga toh mujhe pata hai ki main khelunga hi khelunga
, I have full confidence in myself," says Malik.
Malik dismissed suggestions that so much time on the bench with SRH impacted his rhythm.
"
Aisa nahi bolunga ki unke (SRH) wajah se hua hai
. Not playing does affect rhythm to some extent, but when I make my comeback, it will be in full rhythm.
Jo bhi team mujhe legi usme, 120% dunga or mae acha perform karunga
, 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 Yadav
, India'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.
"
Competition kyu karna hai kisi se
, 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.
English (US) ·