Mumbai Indians Fast-bowler Lasith Malinga quits the IPL 2020 season, James Pattinson will replace him

The Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise team Mumbai Indians star fast bowler Lasith Malinga will not be able to play in the current season. Mumbai Indians have included Australian fast bowler James Pattinson as their replacement by Mumbai Indians. The IPL will be to start on September 19. The team of Mumbai Indians has reached preparations by reaching the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Mumbai Indians will miss veteran bowler Lasith Malinga in the 13th season of the Indian Premier League, which starts on September 19. The 36-year-old paceman will not play in the UAE tournament due to personal reasons. The loss of Lasith, who took 170 wickets in 122 matches, will miss captain Rohit Sharma.

A statement issued by Mumbai Indians said, “Mumbai Indians have signed Australian fast bowler James Pattinson for the replacement of Lasith Malinga for IPL 2020. Lasith Malinga has withdrawn from the IPL due to personal reasons and wants to stay with his family in Sri Lanka. Pattinson will join the Mumbai Indians team this weekend in Abu Dhabi.

Owner Akash Ambani said, ‘James is perfect for us, his presence has increased the options for fast bowling for the team, especially in the condition that we are going to play this time. Malinga is a legend and has been a strong pillar for Mumbai Indians. We will definitely miss him in this IPL. We understand that it is more important in Sri Lanka to be with his family. We welcome James to Mumbai Indians.’