'One of the most exciting prospects I've seen in the last 10 years' - Dilip Vengsarkar wants Umran Malik to make India debut soon

Former Indian cricketer Dilip Vengsarkar thinks Umran Malik is ready to play for the national team. The 22-year-old speedster is selected for the ongoing five-match T20I series against South Africa at home, however, he was not selected in the first two matches of the series.

Indian side fielded Avesh Khan to partner with experienced pace duo Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Harshal Patel in the first game, with Hardik Pandya being the fourth fast bowling option. But the Indian pace attack failed to defend 212 runs target only taking just three wickets.

Umran Malik has the aggression that a fast bowler needs: Dilip Vengsarkar

Umran enjoyed a breakthrough Indian Premier League 2022 season with Sunrisers Hyderabad as he took 22 wickets from just 14 matches with an economy rate of just over the nine. But the pacer made the news more for his consistent bowling speed of over 150 kmph. But what’s next for Umran Malik? Vengsarkar suggested that he should be tested at the international level.

“Everybody has a different outlook on the game. But I feel he deserves to play after showing that kind of speed and accuracy in the IPL. Also, when you are playing (international cricket) at home, that’s the right time to test somebody like him,” Dilip Vengsarkar told Khaleej Times.

Umran has been advised to improve his lines and lengths to complement his speed by many pundits. The player himself has revealed that he is not focusing on breaking any speed records but is trying to focus more on his accuracy. Vengsarkar believes that Umran deserves to play for India as he has shown the aggression that a fast bowler needs.

“He is one of the most exciting prospects I have seen in the last 10 years. I hope he does well because he looks very fit, and he has that aggression of a fast bowler. He has got pace and accuracy. I think he should be able to play for India for a long time,” Vengsarkar said.