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Before the third ODI against Australia, Ravi Shastri gave some words of wisdom to the Rahul Dravid-led management in the matters of handling their lead pace bowlers. He insisted on the entry of a younger speedster to give him much-needed experience in tense situations.
Umran Malik was omitted from the Indian squad for today’s ODI series decider against Australia. The Men in Blue went with their usual Shami-Siraj combo, complimented by medium-pacer Hardik Pandya. Malik didn’t play a single One-Day while he wasn’t selected for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
Ravi Shastri believes it would have been fitting to use Umran in the lineup for the final ODI. The youngster has been a part of the limited-overs side for a while now but hasn’t got exposure playing in crucial matches. He took the example of Mohammad Siraj to prove his point. The right-arm bowler was bashed in IPL and International cricket but gained vital experience. He is now a great asset for the Indian team going forward to the 50-over World Cup.
It’s evident that Umran is a challenging bowler to face, as he has caused more bowled dismissals than any other mode of dismissal. In addition to his impressive ability to bowl fast, the 25-year-old speedy bowler has taken 15 wickets in his previous 8 matches. This includes two instances of taking three wickets in a single innings, and he has only failed to take a wicket once during this period.
The 1983 World Cup winner, Ravi Shastri disclosed that Rahul Dravid should either play Shami or Siraj alongside Umran. If they keep using their veteran pacers, the chances of injuries increase while it also hampers the development of younger bowlers.
In formats where Shami and Siraj don’t play, give chance to Umran. Everyone should be ready. You’re keeping everyone ready. For example, Bumrah is now injured, you’ve got replacements.
Hindustan Times
In 2022, Umran Malik took 24 international wickets with an average of around 20. The youngster regularly clocks the 145 kmph mark which makes him an integral part of Team India’s future. Although he brings in RAW pace to the squad, he occasionally struggles in his line and length, opting to use speed instead of tactics.
The Jammu Express will play for Sunrisers Hyderabad during the 2024 IPL. On April 2, the orange army will kickstart their dreams for a second trophy against Sanju Samson-led Rajasthan Royals.
Ravi Shastri believes Umran Malik can make it to the World Cup Team India squad
The Men in Blue have a plethora of pace bowling options at their disposal. Arshdeep Singh, Shardul Thakur, and Navdeep Saini have proven themselves on International stages. Thus, Umran’s inclusion in the 15-player side for India logically looks bleak. He hasn’t had time to show his full potential, unlike others.
However, Ravi Shastri insists on Umran being picked into the final 15. His brief performance in ODIs has been impressive and India should put faith in such. With the IPL season approaching, performances as well as injuries will be in check.
“With the amount of cricket that is being played, he (Umran Malik) will always be in the mix because there could be injuries cropping up any time. There is a deadline to announce your side for the World Cup (and) the fitness of players will be the key. That’s why this IPL will be crucial to see how they (bowlers) take the load.”
Hindustan Times
Aged 23, Umran Malik was named the Emerging Player of the Tournament during the last IPL event. He took 24 wickets in his 14 matches at an average of 20.18. If the Jammu Express continues such spectacular performances, the selectors could be forced to make a career-defining decision for the World Cup considering his performance in upcoming IPL and Domestic matches.
