Dubai: On his IPL debut, Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) fast bowler Umran Malik clocked 151.03 kph , which is the fastest delivery bowled by an Indian in the ongoing IPL 2021, here Sunday. Malik came into SRH playing XI in place of pacer Sandeep Sharma and he impressed everyone with his raw pace in the match against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in Dubai.
KKR and New Zealand pacer Lockie Ferguson has bowled the fastest delivery of the IPL 2021 so far, clocking 152.75 kph. Meanwhile, Mohammed Siraj was previous fastest Indian bowler in IPL with a delivery clocking 145.97 kph.
The 21-year-old Malik was roped in as a short-term Covid-19 replacement for T Natarajan, who had tested positive ahead of Hyderabad’s encounter against Delhi Capitals September 22.
Umran, who was a part of the Hyderabad contingent as a net bowler, has played one T20 and List A match for Jammu Kashmir and has picked a total of four wickets. Hyderabad skipper Kane Williamson described the right-arm paceman as an “exciting talent” at the toss.
“It’s an unfortunate position to be in but there’s quite a bit to gain with growth of players, in difficult conditions, especially against a side like Kolkata. Umran Malik comes in for Sandeep Sharma just to improve the balance of the side. He’s an exciting fast bowling talent,” he said.
Though, Hyderabad lost the match by 6 wickets against Kolkata, Williamson praised young cricketer at the post-match presentation too.
“He (Malik) has been bowling really quick in the nets and it’s really nice for him to get an opportunity today,” he said.
SRH, who are currently languishing at the bottom of the IPL 2021 points table with just two wins in 12 matches, have already been knocked out of the playoffs race.