Before today, all but the most obsessed of cricket fans would have had a blank look if you said the name ‘Umran Malik’ to them, and those who didn’t would likely have been lying. The 21-year-old was roped in as a short-term Covid-19 replacement for T Natarajan just a few days ago, having been with the squad as a net bowler beforehand.

He had played only two professional games before today, and a glance at the scorecards and available info would not have promised much. In his one List A appearance for Jammu + Kashmir, he conceded 1-98 in his 10-over spell, while most articles and profiles referred to him as a medium pacer.

Within three balls of his debut spell, he had shown himself to be anything but, becoming the first Indian bowler to top 150kph in IPL 2021. Later in his spell he would reach a top speed of 151.03kph (93.85mph), the seventh fastest ball in the tournament so far. Only express pacers Anrich Nortje and Lockie Ferguson have a higher top speed, with Malik bowling the three fastest balls by an Indian in his spell.

There wasn’t a slower ball in sight, with just three of Malik’s deliveries dipping below 140kph. He showed he could marry consistency to pace too, conceding just 27 runs in his four overs. “We’ve been facing Malik in the nets,” said Kane Williamson. “He’s special, lots of pace. Young guy who runs in and goes hard.”

His debut might have ended in defeat, but Malik is certainly a player to keep an eye on. At his pace, however, that’s easier said than done.

Watch Malik’s rapid first over, including his 150kph ball, below: