Xtra Time Web Desk: South African captain Temba Bavuma is not worried about the prospect of facing India’s new pace sensation Umran Malik ahead of the team’s departure to India. The Proteas squad will be playing five T20 matches against a second-string Indian side led by KL Rahul.
“Umran Malik is an exciting pace bowling prospect for the Indian team. IPL has been great for the Indian team as they are able to unearth all these fast-bowling options,” Temba Bavuma said ahead of his side’s departure for the T20 series in India.
He added, “I think in South Africa we grow up facing fast bowlers but I don’t think no batter likes to face ball at 150 kmph. But you prepare as well as you can. We also got guys who can bowl 150 kmph. So, we have that weaponry in our arsenal. But Umran Malik is a special talent for Team India and I hope that he could emulate his IPL performance in international cricket.”
Umran Malik has been the find of the recently concluded IPL 2022 season. The fast bowler from Jammu has consistently clocked over 150 kmph. His stellar performance saw him drafted in the Indian T20 team for the series against Proteas. The 22-year-old was named the Emerging Player of the IPL 2022.