The readiness of players to transition from domestic cricket to the international stage is a subject of ongoing debate in the cricketing world. Recently, Ishant Sharma, the experienced Indian fast bowler, shared his thoughts on this matter, specifically regarding the young and talented Umran Malik. Although Umran has been included in India’s limited-overs squad for the upcoming series against West Indies, he has not been considered for the Test matches.
During a discussion, Ishant was asked about Umran’s suitability for Test cricket. In response, Ishant offered a balanced perspective, acknowledging Umran’s raw pace while expressing concerns about his consistency and lack of a strong first-class record.
Ishant commented while commentating on JioCinema, saying, “When he has a good first-class record, he has the pace but consistency is a question mark. If you have to play him Test cricket for a long time, you need to give him a little time to do well in first-class cricket and then you can select him for Test cricket.”
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The veteran emphasized the significance of rewarding seamers who have consistently performed in first-class cricket, stating, “You won’t be fair to those who have performed in first-class cricket for so many years, picked up wickets for their team and for themselves so that they can play at a higher level.”
Umran’s current first-class records do not support an immediate Test call-up. In seven matches, he has managed only 12 wickets at an average of 46.67. Considering his limited experience in bowling long spells with the red ball, Ishant believes that fast-tracking Umran to the Test format could have counterproductive effects.
Apart from Umran Malik, Ishant Sharma also shared his thoughts on another young seamer, Arshdeep Singh, who has been impressed with his performances for Kent in county cricket. Ishant spoke highly of Arshdeep Singh, highlighting his left-arm angle and ability to swing the ball both ways. He also praised Singh’s increased pace and accuracy, which could be valuable assets in Test cricket.
“His pace has gone up a lot from the T20 World Cup to this season’s IPL. How fast you bowl with the old ball is very important in Test cricket,” Ishant Sharma emphasized.
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Arshdeep Singh has showcased his potential in the domestic circuit, claiming 33 wickets in ten first-class matches at an average of 28.24. His recent displays for Kent in the ongoing county season have also been noteworthy, as he has taken eight wickets in three matches.
Ishant Sharma’s perspective on Umran Malik’s readiness for Tests underscores the importance of a strong first-class record as a prerequisite for selection in the longer format. While Umran displays promise with his pace, it is vital for him to excel in the longer format before making the leap to Test cricket. On the other hand, Arshdeep Singh’s consistent performances in first-class cricket and his current stint in county cricket position him as a potential candidate for Test cricket.
