India vs South Africa: Umran Malik names his 3 idols; eyes 5-0 win

India’s rookie fast bowler Umran Malik, who impressed in the recently concluded IPL 2022, is now focused on winning games for the national side as he prepares for the five-match T20I home series against South Africa.

The 22-year-old Malik, who plays for Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), hogged the limelight in this year’s IPL with his pace. He consistently bowled at 150 kmph-plus and took 22 wickets. His fastest delivery was 157 kmph, the second quickest in this season’s IPL.

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Though his bowling action reminds us of Pakistani fast bowling great Waqar Younis, Malik said he did not idolise him.

Talking about his idols, he told Indian Express, “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.”

Having earned a maiden call-up to the Indian team, Malik said he wants to win all five games for the side against the Proteas. The series starts on June 9.

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“There’s no point getting carried away. If it is destined to happen, it 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,” the right-arm paceman from Jammu said.

He said he is grateful for all the love and respect he is getting from all over the country. “Firstly, I am really grateful for all the love and respect that I have been getting from all over India. Relatives and other people keep coming home, it feels very good. I have been a bit busy after the IPL, but have not missed training and practice.”