Playing with Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) a few seasons ago, Umran Malik made his debut. His ability to bowl at speeds of over 150 kph surprised both fans and specialists. After being promoted quickly to the Indian side, the right-arm bowler featured in 10 ODIs and 8 T20Is, taking 13 and 11 wickets in each match.
But his progress has been hampered by recurrent illnesses and injuries. The 26-year-old missed both the IPL earlier this year and the whole 2024–25 domestic season. After missing almost 17 months of play, he made his comeback during this season’s Ranji Trophy. Additionally, Malik is a member of the team representing Jammu & Kashmir in the current Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2025.
He is aware that pacers may experience certain injuries, but he won’t slow down because he thinks it’s one of his main advantages.
“Every fast bowler on the planet is aware that injuries will occur during his career. However, I’m naturally fast. With that, how can I make a compromise? My greatest strength is speed, and I want to keep it up,” Umran Malik told ESPNcricinfo on the sidelines of the December 4 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy match between Hyderabad and Jammu and Kashmir in Kolkata.
“You cannot immediately bowl at 150 kph. You eventually get to that speed. I want to show off my wickets, but I don’t want to show off my speed. However, he noted, “I also want to bowl at 140 [from 150] and not drop to a speed of 130 from 150 after ten years [of bowling competitively].”
Umran Malik says money is not an issue.
Last season, Malik was a member of the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) team, however he was unable to participate in any games. The three-time winners have decided to keep him for IPL 2026. Umran Malik stated that he doesn’t care about money and that his goal is to remain healthy and regularly take wickets for his team.
“I am aware that playing in the IPL is not that tough for a lot of Indian fast bowlers. Although it’s probably simple for me as well, I’m considering more than just competing in the tournament. Money is not an issue. First and foremost, I need be in good enough shape and fitness to play every game for the team and take wickets. What would my worth as a player be if I am unable to accomplish this? Umran Malik enquired
“I’ll put in as much effort as necessary. I’ll learn from my mistakes. I want to make my return unforgettable, therefore I’ll look after myself,” Umran Malik continued.
India
