The call to drop Umran Malik for the second T20I between India and New Zealand in Lucknow caused a stir among fans and cricket enthusiasts. The speedster was given one over in the opening game in Ranchi and conceded 16 runs, leading to Hardik Pandya leaving him out for the rest of the match.
Despite the Kiwis winning the contest by 21 runs, former Indian cricketer and two-time World Cup champion, Gautam Gambhir, believes that Umran should be given more opportunities to grow and improve as a bowler in international cricket.
Although Umran has had his share of expensive spells and has been targeted by batters due to his inconsistent line and length, Gambhir believes that the young pacer will only get better with experience. Instead of dropping him, India should persist with Umran and help him become a better bowler in the long run.
“Umran Malik should be played regularly and given more chances to make him a better bowler in international cricket,” Gambhir stressed on Star Sports. Don’t let this young talent go to waste. Persist with Umran Malik and help him fulfill his potential as a bowler.”