IPL 2020: James Pattinson replaces Lasith Malinga in Mumbai Indians squad
Sri Lankan paceman Lasith Malinga has withdrawn from IPL 2020 due to personal reasons, Mumbai Indians (MI) said. James Pattinson has replaced him
FollowAbu Dhabi: Lasith Malinga is the latest player to pull out of the 13th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL 2020). Malinga won’t play for Mumbai Indians (MI) this year due to personal reasons.
Malinga joins Suresh Raina (Chennai Super Kings), Jason Roy (Delhi Capitals) and Kane Richardson (Royal Challengers Bangalore) in the list of cricketers who have opted out of IPL 2020 to be played in the UAE from September 19 to November 10.
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“Lasith Malinga has requested unavailability for the season for personal reasons and to be with family back home in Sri Lanka,” MI said on its website on Wednesday (September 2).
Malinga has been replaced by Australia fast bowler James Pattinson.
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“James Pattinson will join the MI Family currently based in Abu Dhabi this weekend,” MI said.
Owner Akash Ambani welcomed Pattinson on board and extended all support to Lasith.
“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.
“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 wellbeing will always hold utmost importance. We welcome James to our One Family,” Akash said.
