Srinagar: Former India pacer Zaheer Khan has also come in support of J&K’s tearaway pacer Umran Malik who has been out of favour in Sunrisers Hyderabad camp in the ongoing IPL 2023.
Zaheer Khan said that Umran was not utilized effectively by SRH this year, and it was evident that the franchise failed to provide him with the support and environment necessary for a young seamer.
“I think Umran Malik has not been handled well by the franchise, the way his services should have been utilised by SRH. That is something which was evident,” Zaheer was quoted as saying by Hindustan Times.
“When you are talking about a young seamer, you are also looking at creating that environment and support. That guidance is required. Unfortunately, that was not seen from SRH and that is why he has had the season that he’s had this year,” he added.
Zaheer emphasized the importance of creating the right environment and support for young seamers, which he believes was lacking in SRH’s approach this season, leading to Umran’s forgettable performance.
Meanwhile Sunrisers skipper Aiden Markram gave bizarre statement at the toss on Thursday that raised questions about the internal happenings of SRH.
“I don’t really know what’s happening with him behind the scenes,” said the SRH skipper while still labelling Malik as their “X-factor”.
SRH has had a disappointing season, currently occupying the bottom spot on the IPL 2023 points table with eight points.
Following their loss to RCB, they are now out of playoff contention. In their final league stage clash on May 21, they will face Mumbai Indians (MI), the five-time champions, at the picturesque Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.
