IPL 2022: Anrich Nortje Feels Umran Malik Will Play For India, But Execution Skill Will Be More Important Than Raw Speed

Updated - 14 May 2022, 01:08 PM

Anrich Nortje
Anrich Nortje (Image: Twitter)

South African pacer Anrich Nortje feels Umran Malik will have opportunities at the international level for India, but he’ll need to combine his raw speed with exceptional delivery to endure the rigors of international cricket.

Nortje, one of the quickest pacers in the world who has returned to the IPL after a four-month absence due to a hip injury, discussed the difficulties of his comeback and missed his new-ball teammate, Kagiso Rabada.

SRH's Umran Malik- Photo- BCCI
SRH’s Umran Malik- Photo- BCCI

Nortje seemed tentatively enthusiastic when questioned about India’s latest speed phenomenon, which regularly hits speeds of over 90 mph.

“I am confident that Umran will soon become one of India’s crucial players.” Luck will be required. “But, most significantly, it’s about the value of what you deliver,” Nortje told PTI in an interview.

“We’ve noticed that the quickest deliveries that are being given are going for boundaries. It makes no difference how fast it is delivered. The pace isn’t the only factor to consider.”

Umran Malik (Image Credits: IPL)
Umran Malik (Image Credits: IPL)

“It was all about execution quality.” And I feel he is getting better at controlling his pace. Umran seems to be in excellent hands at Sunrisers Hyderabad, where he is coached by Dale Steyn. He is surrounded by experienced and skilled players, therefore he will undoubtedly develop,” the Proteas speed merchant said.

‘I had to take a break at the start due to my injury’: Anrich Nortje

Nortje has had a difficult season, appearing in only four of the Delhi Capitals’ 12 games and claiming only six wickets.

“It’s been a good amount of time at home, but it’s fantastic to be back somewhere on the ground with the guys.” I needed a break at the beginning (of my injury), but I ended up being quite confused towards the conclusion.”

Anrich Nortje, Delhi Capitals
Anrich Nortje (Image Credit: Twitter)

“It’s a great feeling to be back out there and attempt to bowl at the level I was,” the 28-year-old added.

Nortje began this season on April 7, but after a disastrous start in which he went for 35 in 2.2 overs against the Lucknow Super Giants, he returned on May 5 and has appeared in three games since then.

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