The defending champions Mumbai Indians (MI) have been dealt with a huge blow as their experienced campaigner Lasith Malinga has pulled out of the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) season. The tournament is set to commence on September 19 in the UAE. Malinga wants to be with his family in Sri Lanka as it was earlier reported that his father is unwell.
Australian pacer James Pattinson will join the team in Abu Dhabi this weekend. Pattinson has previously played for the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the IPL.
“James is the right fit for us and adds to our pace attack options available at hand especially for the conditions we will play in this season in UAE,” Owner Akash Ambani said in a statement.
Malinga is the highest wicket-taker in the IPL history with 170 scalps. It will only be the second time in IPL’s history that its most successful outfit will be without Malinga. “Lasith is a legend and a pillar of MI’s strength. There is no denying the fact that we will miss Lasith’s cricketing acumen this season. However, we fully understand Lasith’s need to be in Sri Lanka with his family during this time. Mumbai Indians is founded on the values of ‘One Family’ and for us the members of our squad and their well-being will always hold utmost importance.” the statement read.
With the absence of Malinga in the team, fast-bowler Jasprit Bumrah will have added responsibilities on his shoulder to lead the Mumbai Indians bowling attack.
