Former Pakistan pacer Aaqib Javed believes that comparing India’s Umran Malik and Pakistan’s Haris Rauf is not a fair comparison. Both bowlers have consistently touched the 150 kmph mark on the speedometer, but Javed believes that there is more to being a top bowler than just breaking records.
Javed argues that consistency is key when it comes to being a top bowler. He notes that while Umran Malik may start a match by bowling at 150 kmph, by the seventh or eighth over, his speed drops to 138 kmph. On the other hand, Haris Rauf is able to maintain a consistent pace throughout the match.
Javed attributes this difference to Haris Rauf’s disciplined approach to diet, training, and lifestyle. He notes that Rauf is very dedicated to maintaining his fitness and overall health, which allows him to perform at a high level consistently.
In contrast, Javed believes that Umran Malik is not as well-trained and fit as Haris Rauf. He believes that the difference between the two bowlers is similar to the difference between Virat Kohli and other top batters.
Overall, Javed believes that it is not just about breaking records, but about consistently performing at a high level throughout a match. He notes that while bowling at 160 kmph may be impressive, it is even more crucial to maintain that speed throughout a match. This is something that Haris Rauf is able to do, due to his disciplined approach to diet, training, and lifestyle.
"Umran Malik is not as trained or fit as Haris Rauf. He touches 150KPH in his first spell in ODI cricket, but after bowling 6-7 overs, his speed falls to 138KPH," Aqib Javed. #HBLPSL8
— Farid Khan (@_FaridKhan) January 22, 2023