“SRH should had played Umran Malik earlier” – Ashish Nehra

Former India seamer Ashish Nehra has expressed surprise that Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) did not give a match to rookie pacer Umran Malik earlier in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021.

The 21-year-old Malik made his IPL debut against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on Sunday in Dubai, in match number 49 of IPL 2021. Malik impressed cricket experts and fans with his pace and accuracy, and even reached 150 kph.

A rising sensation from Jammu and Kashmir, the right-arm pacer was drafted into the SRH squad as a COVID-19 replacement for T Natarajan.

Talking about Umran Malik’s IPL debut, Nehra firmly stated that SRH missed a huge opportunity by not trying the youngster earlier.

“I am surprised SRH did not play Umran Malik earlier. He was brought in as T Natarajan’s replacement, who hasn’t taken part in the second half of IPL 2021 at all. SRH were struggling in the bowling department so I am wondering why they held him back, especially considering the pitches in Dubai and Abu Dhabi,” the former left-arm pacer said in a post-match show.

The Kashmiri pacer bowled four overs for 27 and, although he went wicketless, he did cause problems for KKR’s batters with his extra pace.

What a Talent – SRH skipper lauds Umran Malik

SRH captain Kane Williamson also praised Urman Malik for displaying an impactful show in his debut IPL game. Speaking about the Jammu and Kashmir pacer at the post-match conference, Kane Williamson said:

“We have been facing him in the nets, and it’s quite something special. He’s got quite a lot of pace. For a young guy, he runs in and bowls fast. It’s amazing for him to get a chance tonight. He has been bowling in our nets for a couple of seasons now. It was a special occasion for him, and what a talent!”

Umran Malik made his debut in List A and T20 cricket earlier this year for Jammu & Kashmir. He bagged 3 for 24 in four overs on his T20 debut against the Railways.

Playoffs Scenario

Meanwhile, the IPL league matches stage is coming to an end, with the final league match just 4 days away. CSK,DC and RCB have booked their place in the playoffs already. CSK was the first team to secure their spot in the playoffs, DC being second and RCB; after defeating PBKS yesterday, made their way into the playoffs.

KKR,MI and RR are in the contention for fourth spot. All the three teams can end their league stage with 14 points. PBKS do have a mathematical possibility but that seems unlikely.