Umran Malik Sidelined By Dengue, Eyes Comeback Before Australia Cricket Tour

Umran Malik's return to cricket has been postponed due to dengue, preventing him from participating in the initial phase of the Buchi Babu Tournament. Jammu and Kashmir's second match begins on August 21, and it remains uncertain if the 24-year-old will be fit to play by then.

The fast bowler has had a challenging year, playing only one match in IPL 2024 in March. His last professional game was also during this period. In IPL 2023, he appeared in just eight matches due to his high economy rate and inconsistency.

"I would have loved to play in the tournament, but I'm just recovering from dengue," Umran told The Indian Express from Jammu.

Despite not getting a chance to play in IPL 2024, Umran used practice sessions to enhance his bowling skills. He said, "I was fully prepared that season (Ranji Trophy 2023-24), but the weather didn't help. Then I was really looking forward to the IPL as I'd gained a lot in the months preceding the IPL. Unfortunately even that didn't go the way I wanted. But it also gave me the time to work on things I wanted to in the practice sessions. I've definitely become a better bowler if you ask me. After the IPL, I injured my hamstring and just as I recovered I'm down with dengue."

New Strategies with New Ball

Umran has been focusing on bowling more with the new ball to improve his skills and surprise batters. He believes swing can make a significant difference at his pace. "These days I'm bowling a lot with the new ball because I believe swing can make a huge difference at my pace. I want to learn a few things, especially how to formulate a plan and execute it," he said.

He added that fitting into team plans is crucial: "When I'm bowling in a match, it is not about myself or what I do. I've to fit into the bowling group and their plans and compliment them. So I need to be equipped on that front."

Future Aspirations

Umran aims to keep things simple and focus on domestic cricket for now. "I want to keep it simple. My plan is to be ready for the domestic season. If I play more matches, then I would definitely be a better bowler," he stated.

The young pacer is eager for more opportunities: "Even though I played only five Ranji matches, I realised how much I gained out of it. I'm waiting for the Duleep Trophy. If I play the entire season then I will know where exactly I stand and it will open up opportunities."

A bowler like Umran Malik, who consistently bowls over 150 km/h, could be valuable for India in SENA countries (South Africa, England, New Zealand, Australia). His name often comes up ahead of tours to these nations. With India set for an Australia tour later this year, there is renewed interest in Umran's performance.

"I'm waiting to hold the red ball in my hand," he expressed eagerly.

As Umran Malik continues his recovery from dengue, fans hope he will soon return stronger and showcase his improved skills on both domestic and international stages.