IPL 2022: Many Advisors, Many Expectations To Fulfill But Umran Malik Needs To Focus On What Is To Be Done - VVS Laxman

Former Indian cricketer VVS Laxman asserted that the outside world has already set high expectations of Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) speedster, Umran Malik, but he needs to focus solely on his job at hand.

The 23-year-old Umran has taken 15 wickets in 11 matches for SRH so far with a decent average of 24.27. The tally also includes a stunning 5-wicket haul against Gujarat Titans albeit in a losing cause. Speaking about the Srinagar-born bowler, Laxman said there is a lot for the youngster to learn.

“When you are playing at the highest level, very soon you realize that you have to control your actions (off the field). There will be so many advisors, so many expectations to fulfill but players who play at the highest level very soon cordon all that off and focus on what is to be done.”

“I am sure Umran or anyone who plays for the country will learn that very soon. The sooner they learn that they will be successful. So no need of bouncers (around him), it is important to bowl bouncers,” Laxman mentioned in a chat with reporters on the sidelines of a Dream Set Go event.

“Umran Malik should partner Jasprit Bumrah when India play in Australia” – Harbhajan Singh

Harbhajan also lavished praise on Umran, saying that he should be part of the Indian squad for the T20 World Cup in Australia bowling alongside the likes of Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami.

“He is my favourite. I want to see him in the Indian team. What a bowler he is. Name a pacer bowling at over 150 and not playing for the country. So I think this is a great thing. He will inspire many youngsters to take up this game, where has come from and what he is doing in the IPL.”

“He has been unbelievable. I don’t know if he will be selected or not but if I was part of the selection committee, I would have given him a go-ahead. Umran Malik should partner Jasprit Bumrah when India play in Australia,” Harbhajan stated.

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