Overview
- Malik says he will not compromise on speed, describing pace as his biggest strength and core identity as a bowler.
- He has returned to domestic action in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy for Jammu & Kashmir, including a reported 3/37 against Uttar Pradesh.
- Following a hip issue and extended time out, he plans to build back to top velocity gradually rather than chase 150 kph immediately.
- Stints at the BCCI Centre of Excellence have helped him understand his body and manage workload to reduce injury risk.
- Kolkata Knight Riders have retained him ahead of the 2026 mega auction, and he says his focus is fitness and wickets rather than money.