The 21-year-old Sunrisers bowler had turned heads with his tearaway speeds in IPL 2021

“This tournament throws up talent every year,” Kohli had said at the presentation. “It’s good to see a guy bowling at 150 clicks. It’s important to understand the progress of individuals from here on, how to maintain your body and how you can get the best out of them. The pool of fast bowlers being strong is always going to be a good thing for Indian cricket. Whenever you see talent like this, obviously you’re going to have your eyes on them and make sure that you maximise their potential.”

The 21-year-old had impressed Kohli enough to earn a call-up as a net bowler with the Indian team.

Malik’s pace could be a significant factor for India’s preparations for the T20 World Cup, with the team being drawn in the same group as Pakistan and New Zealand. Both sides have bowlers who can bowl it quick, in Shaheen Shah Afridi and Lockie Ferguson. India open their T20 World Cup campaign with a match against Pakistan on October 24.