Salman Butt said Umran Malik has a long way to go in international cricket.
Salman Butt, a former Pakistan captain, has dismissed parallels between Shoaib Akhtar and Umran Malik, claiming that the youngster has a long way to go in international cricket. Malik was one of the few young fast bowlers that caught everyone's attention with his performance in the recently concluded IPL 2022.
The Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) pacer consistently bowled over 150 kmph and produced several match-winning spells in the IPL 15. He was also one of the highest wicket-taker in the tournament with 22 scalps to his name.
This outstanding performance earned him his maiden India call-up against South Africa in the ongoing T20I series. Despite the fact that the 22-year-old is yet to play for India, many have already drawn comparisons between him and the ‘Rawalpindi Express’ Shoaib Akhtar, the game's fastest bowler.
Butt believes Umran should deliver in international cricket before being compared to 'top-notch' players. He also praised the Indian as a promising young pacer and expressed surprise at his exclusion from the playing XI of the first T20I.
"I don't know why Umran is being held back. Bhuvneshwar is an experienced bowler and India could have rested him along with other senior players. They could have tried Umran, who is different from other bowlers. He bowls fast and comes as a surprise element against batters," said the former Pakistan skipper on his YouTube channel.
"We have people in both countries who like to have such pointless discussions. You draw a comparison when something happens at the international level. Any fast bowler who can bowl 150 kph is an exciting prospect. Umran is as exciting as any person who bowls 150-plus. But let him play and do something first, then you can compare him with top-notch cricketers. I don't think we should have these comparisons at this stage," he added.
SEE ALSO: 'He has the attitude that a fast bowler should have' - Gambhir lauds Avesh Khan
Former players and pundits have all praised Umran's inclusion in the national squad for his ability to bowl at an express pace.
Akhtar, the first player to surpass the 100-mile barrier, had backed the Indian speedster to join the exclusive group. He stated that Umran belongs on the international stage, but cautioned him to avoid injuries.
"I want to see him have a long career. A few days ago, someone was congratulating me as it's been 20 years since I bowled the fastest delivery but no one has been able to break the record. But I said, 'There must be someone who can smash this record'. I will be happy if Umran breaks my record. But needs to ensure that he doesn't get injured in the process want to see him playing for a long stretch without any injuries," Akhtar had told Sportskeeda.
"I want to see him on the world stage as he belongs there. At present, there are not many people who can cross the 150 kph mark. We have seen that Umran has been bowling consistently at that pace. I want Umran to that 100 mph mark at the back of his mind. I will be happy if he enters the 100 mph club. But he has to stay away from injuries which can halt his career." he stated further.
(HT AND SPORTSKEEDA INPUTS)