Umran Malik made a big revelation about the bowler he idolized

Umran Malik has been the biggest and the most exciting prospect of the Indian T20 League 2022. The tear-away Indian pacer from Jammu and Kashmir has recently revealed that he will try and break Shoaib Akhtar’s record for the fastest delivery in international cricket. But in a recent interview, he also stated that he idolized the legendary Pakistani pacer, Waqar Younis while growing up. He also revealed a few other names whom he saw as his idol.

Recently the former Australian speedster Brett Lee made a comparison between Waqar Younis and Umran Malik. The Aussie bowler stated that both Waqar and Umran are quick through the air and have the ability to bowl toe-crushing Yorkers. However, Malik stated that he has never followed Younis during his young days. In fact, Malik revealed that he has a natural action and he actually followed Bhuvneswar Kumar, Jasprit Bumrah, and Mohammed Shami while growing up.

“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,” Umran told during a conversation with The Indian Express.

Malik became the talk of the town when he showcased his ability of bowling 150 kmph regularly during the Indian T20 League 2022. He also bowled the second fastest delivery of the 15^th edition of the tournament when he clocked 157 kmph during a match. Malik finished the tournament with 22 wickets to his name and his brilliant exploits earned him his maiden call up to the national team for the South Africa series. He is currently preparing himself for the series and is expecting to carry forward his rich form into the series.

“There’s no point getting carried away. If it is destined to happen, 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 perform well and single-handedly win those games for India,”- Malik added.