Umran Malik has been facing tough challenges to get back into contention for the Indian national team after being completely ignored by Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in the IPL 2024 despite his electrifying pace and uncanny ability to consistently bowl at speeds above 150 kmph.

His career has been marred by his economical pace. Malik’s raw pace has dazzled fans and critics before, but his struggle to maintain control and consistency led to him losing a lot of runs, which ultimately robbed him of his place in Team India and he was only able to play one match for SRH in IPL 2024.

Umran Malik reveals plans to overcome IPL setbacks and regain his place in India

Earlier, former India bowling coach Paras Mhambrey revealed that Malik’s inconsistency and poor economy had made captain Rohit Sharma lose confidence in the young fast bowler. As the new domestic season approaches, Malik is working tirelessly to address these issues.

The Jammu and Kashmir off-spinner said he is now focusing on honing his skills and preparing for the high-profile tour to Australia later this year. Looking to improve his game, Malik revealed that he is devoting considerable time to mastering the art of swing bowling with the new ball.

Malik is also honing his ability to execute yorkers effectively, with the aim of developing the confidence to use them consistently in matches, and says his strategy is about integrating himself into the team’s bowling plans and complementing his fellow bowlers.

The upcoming domestic season is a crucial one for Malik. With renewed determination, Malik now aims to surprise the batsmen and regain his place in the Indian cricket team. He is working with former Indian star Irfan Pathan to improve his bowling skills and add new dimensions to his game.

I’m playing a lot with the new ball: Umran Malik

However, Malik’s focus changes when he joins the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru, and he dedicates his efforts to improving his fitness, refining his tactical approach and mastering new variations under the guidance of Troy Cooley. Notably, Cooley previously served as bowling coach for both England and Australia.

Umran Malik said in an interview with The Indian Express: “I am currently playing a lot with the new ball because I feel the swing can make a big difference to my pace. I want to learn a few things, especially how to formulate a plan and execute it. If you have that, you will be better prepared to face challenges.”

Malik concluded by saying, “When I am bowling in a match, it is not about me or what I do. I have to fit into the group of bowlers and their plans and complement them. So, I need to be equipped in that aspect. Even with the new ball, I am trying to bowl yorkers because if I can execute it properly, then I will have the confidence to bowl it all the time. You have to find ways to surprise the batsmen.”