Tymal Solomon Mills is a dynamic cricketer hailing from England, known for his explosive fast bowling skills and innovative approach to the short-form game. Despite facing numerous challenges and setbacks throughout his career, Mills has managed to make a name for himself in the world of cricket.
Born on August 12, 1992, in Dewsbury, West Yorkshire, Mills did not start playing cricket until the age of 14. However, his talent was evident from the start, and within two years, he had already established himself as an emerging player. His dedication and passion for the sport led him to abandon his journalism course at the University of East London, as he saw a promising future in cricket.
Mills joined the Essex County Cricket Club’s academy set-up and quickly rose through the ranks. Representing England’s Under-19 team and making his Championship debut in 2011, he caught the attention of the National Academy selectors. Mills’ impressive performances and ability to consistently bowl at speeds exceeding 90mph earned him a place in the Performance Programme and a spot on the Lions’ tour of Bangladesh.
Despite the hype surrounding him, Mills faced challenges early on in his career. A disappointing season in 2013, where he took only six wickets in the Championship, hindered his progress. However, undeterred by this setback, Mills joined Sussex in 2014, hoping to reignite his career.
In 2015, Mills received a life-changing diagnosis when he was found to have a congenital back condition. His spinal cord and vertebrae were unusually close together, making fast bowling a potential risk to his health. This diagnosis led him to focus on T20 cricket, where he could manage his workload and contribute as a specialist in the shortest format of the game.
Mills’ career took a significant turn in 2016 when he made his debut for the England national team. His performances against Sri Lanka showcased his talent and earned him recognition on the global stage. His success led to a lucrative contract with the Royal Challengers Bangalore in the Indian Premier League, where he continued to impress with his ability to deceive batters with his variations in pace and length.
Despite his early success, Mills faced challenges with injuries that limited his participation in matches. These injuries and concerns about his long-term fitness kept him out of England’s T20I plans for several years. However, Mills remained determined and resilient, continuously working on his game and honing his skills.
In 2021, Mills made a sensational return to the international scene when he was selected for the England squad for the T20 World Cup. His outstanding performances in domestic tournaments, such as the Blast and the Hundred, caught the attention of the selectors. Mills showcased his ability to bowl deadly slower balls that left batters struggling to read his deliveries, while still maintaining his express pace.
As one of England’s most exciting T20 bowlers, Mills has defied conventional wisdom with his innovative approach. He prefers back-of-length deliveries over yorkers, a strategy that has proven successful in unsettling batters. His selection for the T20 World Cup demonstrated his resilience and determination to overcome obstacles and achieve success at the highest level.
Tymal Solomon Mills’ journey in cricket is a testament to his passion, perseverance, and adaptability. Despite facing setbacks, injuries, and a career-threatening diagnosis, Mills has managed to carve out a niche for himself as a T20 specialist. With his exceptional skill set and unwavering determination, Mills continues to make an impact in the cricketing world, captivating fans with his explosive bowling and contributions to the sport.