My Idols Include Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, And Bhuvneshwar Kumar - Umran Malik After Brett Lee's Comments

The rising Indian pace bowler Umran Malik said that he has always idolized the likes of Jasprit Bumrah, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, and Mohammed Shami and doesn’t have an action similar to that of former Pakistani bowler, Waqar Younis.

Former Australian speedster Brett Lee had showered praise on Umran stating that he reminds him of Waqar during his heydays. However, Umran said the Indian pace-trio was his inspiration growing up.

“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,” Malik said at the Indian Express Idea Exchange.

Umran received his maiden call-up to the Indian national team ahead of their 5-match T20I series against South Africa. He was impressive in the IPL 2022 season playing for Sunrisers Hyderabad and deservedly made it to the Indian team.

“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.”

“I have been a bit busy after the IPL” – Umran Malik

Umran became the talk of the town after his impressive ability to consistently go past the 150 kmph mark was seen in the league. He also bowled the second-fastest delivery of the IPL (157 kmph) and even won the fastest delivery award for each of the 14 matches he played in.

“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,” Malik mentioned.

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