'We reserve high praise for a player, then he disappears after 1 year' - Kapil Dev on Umran Malik

Umran Malik is India's latest entrant into its ever-growing fast bowling tribe. Selected in the Indian national squad for the ongoing 5-T20I series against South Africa, Malik has impressed head coach Rahul Dravid in the nets, who maintains that there is still time for him to make his debut.

India's first-ever World Cup-winning captain Kapil Dev has spoken about Malik's rise since he clocked over 150 kph consistently in the Indian Premier League (IPL).

Dev, an incredible exponent of fast bowling himself, feels that fast-tracking Malik is not good and that he should be allowed time to play domestic cricket.

"I am very happy with his selection. But it's too early... you have to give him at least two-three years at this level. We reserve high praise for a player, then he disappears after 1 year… but there's no lack of talent. 

I want Umran to keep himself in a good environment and continue the hard work at the same pace. By seeing his ability, I don't think he lacks anything. He needs to develop a great mindset moving forward, and also needs to consult good bowlers and see footage of their bowling," Dev said in an interview on Uncut YouTube channel.

Indian cricket in the past has seen talents like Varun Aaron, Munaf Patel, VRV Singh, and Aavishakar Salvi get fast-tracked and lose out on their pace after not being able to live up to international standards.

Regarded as one of the best all-rounders in the world, Dev explained that pace alone is not a deciding factor for a bowler picking wickets must also be complementary.

"He bowls fast and takes wicket as well. We have seen players who can bowl fast but can't pick up wickets. This young guy has done both. Maybe that's why he got a call-up so early. The IPL has opened the door to national team for many players. But we have to give them two-three years at the international level," the former India captain added.

To complete the conversation, Dev suggested what Malik should work on to become a better bowler.

"If you are bowling 150-plus, economy of 9 isn't a good thing. It should be around 6 to 7. He (Umran) has to improve upon this... try out yorkers and understand the mindset of the batter. But all these things develop with time. He will improve as he bowls against quality batters and hopefully his economy comes down," concluded India's third-highest wicket-taker in Tests, Dev.

It would be interesting to see if India fields Malik in any of the remaining four T20Is after letting South Africa chase down 212 runs in the first game in Delhi last evening (June 9).