“Haven’t followed Waqar Younis”: Umran Malik Opens Up On Comparisons With Pak Legend, Names His Idols 

The prodigal sensational bowler from Sunrisers Hyderabad, Umran Malik, created headlines with his brisk bowling. He has shown utmost hard-work and bowled like a bullet during the Indian Premier League. Umran is currently just 22 years old and IPL 2022 was his maiden season. However, after his fierce performance in the tournament, Umran has been selected in the Indian squad for the tour of South Africa. The young cricketer has earned his spot in the squad as he showed his efficiency of bowling over 150 kmph in consecutive matches. His fastest delivery was of 157 kmph against Delhi Capitals. 

After an astonishing season for the fresh talent, he was nicknamed by the nation as “Jammu Express”, because of his turbo-speed bowling. The Australian legend, Brett Lee, even opened up that the young fast-bowler reminds him of Waqar Younis’s bowling techniques. Although, Umran Malik was himself questioned about his comparison to the Pak’s Burewala Express, Waqar Younis. As a matter of fact, Umran revealed that he hasn’t really followed Younis or his bowling styles.

Also read: IND vs SA: Ravi Shastri names his India XI for 1st T20I, no place for Dinesh Karthik 

Umran Malik Opens Up On Comparisons With Waqar Younis:

“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.” He was also asked about what he feels being a part of 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 hope I perform well and single-handedly win those games for India.” 

Umran Malik has been getting a lot of love and support from all over the world. Especially after his world-class performance in the 15^th season of IPL. He scalped a total of 22 wickets in 14 matches of the tournament. Later, in the interview, he was questioned about how is the fame getting to him. He replied, “Firstly, I’m really grateful for all the love and respect that I’ve been getting from all over India. Relatives and other people keep coming home, it feels very good. I’ve been a bit busy after the IPL, haven’t missed training and practice.”