Injuries have hampered his career after a terrific first season in the IPL.
Indian fast bowler Umran Malik will miss the opening phase of the upcoming Ranji Trophy after suffering a hip injury, Kashmir Sports Watch reported on Sunday. Malik, who was recently named in Jammu and Kashmir’s squad for the tournament, has been advised to rest for 4-6 weeks following medical scans.
The injury adds to a string of setbacks for the 24-year-old speedster, who has been struggling with fitness and form in recent months. Malik last featured in a competitive match during IPL 2024, where Sunrisers Hyderabad only used him in one game. His absence from the field has now extended further with this latest injury.
Malik’s exclusion comes at a time when he was eager to revive his career, having once been touted as India’s next fast-bowling star. Known for consistently clocking speeds above 150 km/h, his rise in 2021 drew widespread attention. However, inconsistent performances at the international level led to his gradual fade from the spotlight.
Earlier this year, Malik was named in India’s Duleep Trophy squad but had to withdraw after contracting dengue. Following his recovery, a hamstring injury kept him out of action again. Just as he was preparing for a comeback, the latest hip injury has further delayed his return to the cricketing circuit.
“Umran has been dealing with one injury after another, which has hampered his progress. He’s a talented player, but these setbacks have made things difficult for him,” a source close to the Jammu and Kashmir Cricket Association (JKCA) told Kashmir Sports Watch.
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The JKCA has not yet announced a replacement for Malik in the Ranji Trophy squad, but reports suggest either Waseem Bashir or Umar Nazir could step in. Both players are regarded as potential options to strengthen the pace attack in Malik’s absence.
Malik’s injuries have raised concerns over his long-term fitness and ability to perform consistently at the top level. With a rehabilitation period of 4-6 weeks, it remains unclear when he will be fit enough to return to action. For now, the young pacer faces yet another battle to regain his fitness and reclaim his position on the cricketing stage.
