NEW DELHI: Former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra has expressed apprehensions about the sudden disappearance of pace sensation Umran Malik from the national squad.
Umran, who played a crucial role in India's white-ball plans during the transition period, was notably missing from the India A squad slated to face England Lions ahead of the 5-match Test series against Ben Stokes' side.
Chopra, sharing his concerns on his YouTube channel, questioned the unexpected sidelining of the young pace bowler.
Highlighting Umran's recent significant presence, including the West Indies tour and the anticipation of his inclusion in the World Cup team, Chopra sought clarity on the reasons behind the abrupt absence.
"What happened within three months that a guy first gets selected for the Indian team, gets very minimum chances there, and then goes totally missing? We don't even know where Umran Malik is. Why isn't he there? We should know why this is happening," expressed Chopra, emphasizing the need for transparency regarding Umran's current status and future prospects.
Umran had a remarkable rise in the 2022 Indian Premier League, where he impressed with 22 wickets at an outstanding strike-rate of 13.41. Despite his raw pace and the ability to trouble batsmen, the subsequent 2023 season saw limited opportunities for the promising pacer.
Chopra came to Umran's defense, urging a closer examination of the circumstances leading to his absence. The former cricketer stressed the importance of understanding the situation surrounding Umran and the need for clear communication regarding his sudden exclusion from the national and India A squads.
(With inputs from IANS)
