Jammu city’s Umran Malik caught people’s attention when he made his debut for the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) franchise in the recent IPL 2021 match against KKR. The 21-year-old cricketer, who comes from a very humble background, impressed everyone by bowling at 150 kph.
His father Abdul Malik, a vegetable and fruit vendor, got very emotional while speaking to India Today and recalled people thronging his residence to congratulate his family.
"My son got inclined to cricket when he was just 3 years old. He always dreamt of becoming a professional cricketer. We were so happy when he was picked up in the playing XI by Sunrisers Hyderabad on Sunday. We were glued to the TV and there were tears of joy in my and my wife's eyes. My son has worked very hard. We always supported him. We hope that one day he plays for Team India," said Abdul Malik, the speedster's proud father while speaking to India Today.
Kieron Pollard picks his top 5 T20 players; names MS Dhoni as well
"It is not an ordinary achievement for us. We are from a poor family. I sell vegetables and fruits to make a living. My son has made me proud. Our joy knows no bounds. Even Lt Governor Sahib has congratulated us. I pray to Almighty that my son continues to excel in his career", added Abdul Malik.
The other family members too are on cloud nine and his uncle Nazir Ahmed Malik said: "We can't even explain how happy we are. Umran has made all of us so proud. We have been flooded with congratulatory messages from people. Umran Malik is a very hard-working and disciplined boy. We now wish to see him playing for India. His IPL achievement will also inspire and encourage other youngsters to excel in sports.”
J&K Lt Governor Manoj Sinha has also congratulated the young cricketer from Jammu.
IPL 2021: SRH's Umran Malik's run-up, action resembles Waqar Younis' style- Kris Srikkanth
"Heartiest congratulations to Umran Malik on IPL debut today from the Sunrisers Hyderabad Team. You have made the entire Jammu Kashmir proud. You are the inspiration for many young cricketers. Best wishes for your cricket career ahead", the Office of J&K Lt Governor tweeted.
"Umran Malik is a very talented cricketer. I have seen him practicing on the ground. He is a very hard-working cricketer. We are very happy that he has made his debut in the IPL & impressed everyone by his bowling skills. He will definitely scale more heights in his career if he continues to work with same dedication & zeal. We will continue to support him and work on honing his skills," said Brig (Retd) Anil Gupta, Incharge, Administration, J&K Cricket Association.
(India Today inputs)
