Malan’s match-winning century against Bangladesh a timely reminder of his quality
Dawid Malan feels the pressure in every series, but is determined to silence the critics with match-winning knocks like his did against Bangladesh in a World Cup game. The English opener has been the most consistent performer for England in last 12 to 18 months yet he feels the pressure to perform in every series to save his spot, but believes the only way to lift it is by scoring match-winning knocks.
Malan smashed a career-best 140 and forged century-plus partnerships with Jonny Bairstow and Joe Root to help England amass 364-9 and eventually canter to a comprehensive victory over Bangladesh in the World Cup on Tuesday. His brilliant batting performance saw him getting player of the game award and seeing how quickly England lost wickets in last 10 overs, Malan’s batting performance looks even more crucial.
The 36-year-old hoped his latest heroics would ease the pressure to perform that accompanied him every time he walked out to bat. “I feel like every series I’m under pressure, so you know for me to keep silencing people is all I can do,” the left-handed batter said.
Dawid Malan Deserves More Recognition for His ODI Batting
“If I can score as many runs as I can and help contribute to wins, then hopefully, eventually people’s opinions might change.”
While he often had to sit out in the past because England had primary openers in Bairstow and Roy, the latter had to leave his spot because of bad form and back spasm. Since being added to the team, Malan has been in red-hot form in recent months grabbing every possible opportunity to cement his place in the side.
His conversation rate has been particularly impressive, the most prolific by any batter in the world at the moment. Since June last year, Malan crossed the 50-mark nine times and converted six of them into hundreds.
The batter attributed it to his hunger for runs that would keep him in the team. “Just hungry, hungry to play and to do well, hungry to score runs and win games of cricket,” he said.
“I’ve wanted to be part of this team for so long, it’s been impossible to break into with the players that have been so good. So, to get your opportunity and try and take it and enjoy it as long as it lasts.”
Malan’s hunger for runs keeps him motivated to perform under pressure
In 2023, England’s prime team has won 7 matches and Dawid Malan scored a century in 5 of these matches. This tells how wonderful he has been with the bat for England, adding consistentcy, taking responsibility and giving results with his best efforts.
Malan’s performance against Bangladesh was a timely reminder of his quality and his importance to the England team. He is a world-class batsman who is capable of winning matches on his own, and his form in recent months has been excellent.
If England are to retain their World Cup title, they will need Malan to continue firing. He is a key player in the team, and his performances will go a long way to determining whether or not they are successful.
