Umran Malik to take the Jasprit Bumrah route? Pacer reveals Work in Progress of a special weapon in Arsenal

Umran Malik has been facing tough challenges to once again being in contention for India selection after being completely ignored by the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in the IPL 2024 despite his electrifying pace and the awe-inspiring ability to consistently bowl at speeds exceeding 150 kph.

His career has been marred by his economy rate. Malik's raw pace has dazzled fans and critics earlier, but his struggle to maintain control and consistency led him to leak a lot of runs, which eventually snatched his place in Team India and he could play only one game with the SRH in the IPL 2024.

Umran Malik reveals plans to overcome IPL setbacks and win back India spot

Earlier, the former India bowling coach Paras Mhambrey revealed that Malik’s inconsistency and poor economy had caused the captain Rohit Sharma to lose confidence in the young fast bowler. As the new domestic season approaches, Malik is working tirelessly to address these issues.

The Jammu and Kashmir pacer said that his focus is now on refining his skills and preparing for the high-profile tour to Australia later this year. With the intention of improving his game, Malik revealed that he is dedicating significant time to mastering the art of swing bowling with the new ball.

Malik is also honing his ability to execute yorkers effectively, aiming to develop the confidence needed to use them consistently in matches, saying his strategy is all about integrating into the team’s bowling plans and complementing his fellow bowlers.

The upcoming domestic season is crucial for Malik. With renewed determination, Malik is now aiming to surprise batters and regain his place in the Indian cricket team. He is working with the former Indian star Irfan Pathan to expand his bowling skills and add new dimensions to his game.

I’m bowling a lot with the new ball: Umran Malik

However, Malik’s focus shifts to different aspects when he joins the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru, dedicating his efforts to improving his fitness, refining his tactical approach, and mastering new variations under the guidance of Troy Cooley. Notably, Cooley has previously served as the bowling coach for both England and Australia.

Umran Malik was quoted as saying by The Indian Express: “These days I’m bowling a lot with the new ball because I believe swing can make a huge difference at my pace. I want to learn a few things, especially how to formulate a plan and execute it. If you have that, then you will be better prepared to handle the challenges.”

Malik signed off by saying, “When I’m bowling in a match, it is not about myself or what I do. I've got to fit into the bowling group and their plans and complement them. So, I need to be equipped on that front. Even with the new ball, I’m trying to bowl yorkers because if I’m able to execute it properly, then I will get the confidence to bowl it all the time. You need to find ways to surprise the batsmen.”