New Delhi: Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Mumbai Indians on Wednesday appointed Sri Lankan pacer and one of their longest serving member Lasith Malinga as their bowling mentor for the 11th edition of the IPL.
Troubled by injuries, Malinga has not been the Sri Lankan selectors’ pick in recent times. He also remained unsold in the recently concluded IPL player auctions.
Malinga has been the core of Mumbai Indians winning combination in the last decade.
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The Sri Lankan has donned the Mumbai Indians jersey featuring in 110 matches of the 157 franchise has played so far.
He will join the support staff headed by coach Mahela Jayawardene, bowling Coach Shane Bond, batting Coach Robin Singh and newly appointed fielding coach James Pemment.
“It’s a great opportunity to be present with, and an honour to continue my association with Mumbai Indians. Mumbai has been my home away from home for the last decade. As a player, I have enjoyed the journey with Mumbai Indians and now as the mentor, I look forward to the new chapter,” said Malinga on his new appointment.
Mumbai Indians owner Akash Ambani feels having Malinga as the mentor will serve a great benefit to the young talents the franchise has in the team.
“Mumbai Indians has proven record of scouting and bringing forth the young talents at National stage. It will be a boon for these youngsters as well the established ones to have the combine force of Shane Bond and Lasith Malinga to back them,” said Akash.
(With ANI inputs)