How India’s 157 Kmph Star Lost His Way? Ex-India Bowling Coach Explains

Former India bowling coach Paras Mhambrey has highlighted the factors behind the decline in form of star pacer Umran Malik. Known for his raw pace and ability to consistently bowl over 145 kmph, Umran has struggled with his line and length recently, according to Mhambrey.

Umran Malik made his IPL debut in 2021, featuring in three matches and taking two wickets. His breakthrough came in the 2022 season when he claimed 22 wickets in 14 games for the Jammu and Kashmir team. Despite his impressive pace, Mhambrey emphasizes that consistency in line and length is crucial for sustained success.

Mhambrey told The Indian Express, “I think one has to build talent. Someone having express pace is a rare commodity and you see potential in him. When he burst onto the scene bowling 145-148 kmph – I’m not someone who gets carried away with the speed gun showing 160 kmph because I don’t think it is real – you realize pace was his strength. He was definitely quick and was hitting the high 140s regularly. To bowl consistently at that pace is good, and he has done that. But how does he do that?”

Following his stellar performance in the IPL 2022, Umran earned caps for India in both ODI and T20I formats. However, he failed to meet expectations, particularly in T20I cricket. His performance in the subsequent IPL editions also left much to be desired.

Umran’s top speed in the IPL is 157 kmph, while in international cricket, it is 156 kmph. Despite his remarkable speed, he has often lacked control, leading to an excessive run leak.

“In T20s, if you are not having control, you will struggle. Once you do that, you will lose the faith of the captain. So one has to gain control, and that will happen only if he plays Ranji Trophy. That is why we are pushing him to play Ranji Trophy because when he goes through a season, even under pressure, he will be able to execute his skillset,” said Mhambrey.

To regain form and develop the necessary control, Mhambrey recommends that Umran Malik participate in the Ranji Trophy. This domestic experience would help him hone his skills and perform effectively under pressure.