Umran Malik has been the poster boy for the Sunrisers Hyderabad. Ever since his debut in 2021, he has been making headlines with his sheer pace and the ability to rip through any batter’s defense. However, it was the 2022 season, during which Umran peaked and showed the talent he brought to the table.
Playing 14 games last season, Umran was SRH’s most successful bowler in the season with 22 wickets to his name. He was also the 4th highest wicket-taker in the league overall, post which, he earned his maiden India call. However, in this season, the right-arm pacer seems to be ignored by his franchise. In the 6 games so far, Umran has only bowled 16 overs. However, he has continued with his natural wicket-taking ability and has picked up 5 wickets.
“Just play another batter”
Despite this, his franchise, the Sunrisers Hyderabad, have not been using him to his full abilities. Experts and fans alike are disappointed with the franchise for keeping Umran on the sidelines. Former India cricketer and Punjab Kings’ batting coach has also expressed his dissent in the matter. Jaffer thinks that if SRH are going to underutilize Umran like this, they might as well play with an extra batter since their batting has been struggling this season.
Speaking to Cricinfo, Jaffer said, “SRH are playing Umran Malik, but he bowled only two overs in the match against Delhi. Instead of him, they could have played a batter. If you don’t trust him as a bowler, it’s better to bring in a batsman to the team.”
“SRH could’ve bowled better”
Jaffer’s remarks come after SRH’s disappointing defeat against the Delhi Capitals in yesterday’s game. At one point, SRH had reduced DC to 60 for 5, post which Delhi were able to post 144 runs. Even in batting, they were 69/1 when Mayank Agarwal got out for 49 and everything started to fall apart.
“Delhi were 62/5 at one point, but Hyderabad allowed them to reach 144. If they had bowled better, things could have been easier for them. Letting Delhi make 144 was a mistake by SRH.”, Jaffer added.
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