Umran Malik Faces Criticism for Lack of Red-Ball Experience

Umran Malik, a young Indian fast bowler who gained fame during the IPL 2022, is experiencing a downturn in his career, having been released from the Duleep Trophy squad due to recent poor performances. Despite an impressive start, where he took 22 wickets for Sunrisers Hyderabad and bowled the fastest delivery by an Indian at 156 KPH in January 2023, Malik's form has been inconsistent, culminating in his limited participation in IPL 2024. Former India bowling coach Paras Mhambrey attributes Malik's struggles to a lack of experience in red-ball cricket, emphasizing that the pressures of T20 formats do not prepare bowlers adequately for longer formats. Mhambrey stated that Malik's entry into international cricket was premature, given his scant exposure to the rigors of First-Class cricket. He believes that playing more red-ball matches is essential for Malik's development and understanding of the game. Malik's current situation reflects the challenges faced by players who rise quickly through T20 leagues without foundational experience in traditional formats.