Kolkata: Express pacer Umran Malik has signalled a promising resurgence in form, delivering an impressive three-wicket haul for Jammu & Kashmir in Round 2 of the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2025. Though J&K fell short against Uttar Pradesh, Umran’s spell — sharp, accurate and aggressive — stood out, reigniting discussions about his IPL future and potential India comeback.
Recently retained by the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) ahead of the IPL 2026 mini-auction, Umran showcased why the franchise continues to back his raw speed and wicket-taking ability. Playing at Jadavpur University Campus, the 26-year-old returned figures of 3/37, removing key batters and troubling UP throughout his spell.
Three Key Wickets in a High-Pressure Match
Despite UP’s eventual total of 193/6, Umran produced standout moments:
Broke the 73-run opening stand by dismissing Karan Sharma in the 9th over
Removed in-form opener Aryan Juyal (51) in the 13th over
Claimed the wicket of KKR teammate Rinku Singh, completing his three-fer
This spell followed his efficient 2/24 against Maharashtra in Round 1 — a performance that helped J&K secure a five-wicket victory at Eden Gardens.
Five Wickets in Two Matches: Signs of a Strong Comeback
After two games in SMAT 2025, Umran has picked up:
➡️ 5 wickets at an impressive average of 12.20 (ESPNcricinfo)
Overall, he now owns:
70 T20 wickets in 56 matches (Avg 24.07)
29 IPL wickets
11 international T20I wickets in 8 games
These early-season numbers reflect a pacer regaining rhythm, pace, and confidence — all crucial for a bowler whose strength lies in consistently hitting the 145–150 kmph range.
Umran played just one IPL match in 2024 and went wicketless in the 2025 season, but KKR’s decision to retain him suggests belief in his long-term potential. His best season remains IPL 2022, when he claimed 22 wickets, earning the Emerging Player award and international debut.
KKR may deploy him alongside Harshit Rana and Vaibhav Arora. A three-pronged Indian pace attack becomes a viable option. His pace could be a major asset on the Eden Gardens track
If he continues delivering breakthroughs in the domestic circuit, Umran is well-positioned to become a regular starter again for KKR in IPL 2026.
Umran has been out of the Indian T20 setup for over a year, but selectors are known to reward domestic consistency — especially for express pacers.
He needs to maintain control with pace, an area he is showing improvement in. Continue producing impact spells like the one against UP. Build a run of performances through SMAT and the upcoming domestic season.
Given India’s current search for reliable T20 fast bowlers, Umran’s resurgence could not have come at a better time. A Promising Rebuild for India’s Fastest Bowler. If he stays fit and consistent, Umran Malik has a genuine opportunity to revive. His IPL career, His role as a strike bowler for India, His reputation as one of the fastest bowlers in the world. SMAT 2025 may well be the start of his long-awaited comeback story.
