There were speculations over Umran Malik’s participating in the final ODI of the series, but the side decided to stick with its combination of Mohammed Shami and Mohammed Siraj, with all-rounder Hardik Pandya chipping in as third pacer. Earlier this week, former India head coach Ravi Shastri spoke in detail about Umran Malik’s place in the Indian lineup, and had an advice for Rahul Dravid and the team management on how to handle the speedster.

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Umran enjoyed a breakthrough year in the 2022, taking 22 wickets in the season and eventually earning a maiden India call-up in June. Even as Umran wasn’t part of the Indian squad in the T20 World Cup later in the year, the fast bowler has been consistently a part of the Indian limited-overs squads.

“I would want him to be part of setup. You also have to see how he’s coming along. The team management would be watching. There’s also a right time to blood the youngster across formats. Classic example is Moammed Siraj. It was the same with him, when he got opportunity, exposure, he’s become almost a certainty across all formats,” Shastri said during a press conference on the sidelines of the Legends League Cricket in Qatar.

“You’ve to save him, you’ve to save Shami. Agar teeno format ye khelnege, toh gadbad hogi (If they play all three formats, it would be trouble). In formats where Shami and Siraj don’t play, give chance to Umran. Everyone should be ready. You’re keeping everyone ready. For example, Bumrah is now injured, you’ve got replacements. That’s very important. He will always be in mix,” Shastri further said.

Umran will now be seen in action for the Sunrisers Hyderabad in the 2023 IPL. The franchise kickstarts its tournament on April 2 against Rajasthan Royals.