(Image Source: Reuters)
[Saba Sports News] Dawid Malan, facing scrutiny after disappointing performances in The Hundred and the T20I series against New Zealand, was on the verge of being dropped from the ODI World Cup squad. Harry Brook’s remarkable summer performances made his selection a possibility. However, Malan made a timely comeback with scores of 54, 96, and 127 in the series against New Zealand.
This resurgence secured the 36-year-old’s place in the squad, while Jason Roy was omitted in favor of Brook. Reflecting on this journey, Malan expressed immense satisfaction in proving his critics wrong by performing well and earning his spot in the World Cup squad. He maintained his confidence throughout and ultimately delivered.
Malan shared, “The way everyone was doubting me, there was a possibility I wouldn’t be selected. Deep down, I remained confident. People judged me based on a few games in The Hundred and pushed for others based on limited T20 performances, which felt harsh. When the time came, I delivered match-winning performances. Silencing those who thought I’d be left out is incredibly satisfying.”
He acknowledged that whenever his form dips, critics call for his removal from the squad. While this frustration occasionally sets in, he has learned to handle it, using it as motivation to prove himself in challenging situations.
Malan emphasized, “I often feel like I’m just one or two bad innings away from being dropped again. It can be frustrating, but I’ve managed to deal with it and prove people wrong. That challenge fuels my determination and resilience.