Defending Indian Premier League champions Mumbai Indians have appointed Sri Lanka pacer Lasith Malinga as their bowling mentor ahead of the upcoming edition in April.
The 34-year-old has been a crucial component of the Mumbai side’s success in the IPL over the course of the past decade but went unsold in the auctions this time around.
Malinga will now join a high-profile coaching staff at the franchise which includes Mahela Jayawardene as the head coach, batting coach Robin Singh, bowling coach Shane Bond and fielding coach James Pemmet.
“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 mentor, I look forward to the new chapter,” Malinga said after his appointment.
Malinga has been a vital cog for the franchise in the past decade.
Mumbai Indians owner Akash Ambani was delighted to have the Sri Lankan onboard ahead of the 11th edition of the IPL.
“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,” he said.
“Malinga has been a pillar of strength for Mumbai Indians since the inception of the team, and his passion for the team will help us achieve new heights,” Ambani added.
The veteran has appeared in 110 of the total 156 matches the franchise has played in the decade-long competition.