IPL 2021: Lasith Malinga retires from Franchise cricket, leaves a message.
Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021: Mumbai Indians player, Lasith Malinga retires from franchise cricket. The Sri Lankan cricketer informed his franchise management, Mumbai Indians about his decision a month ago and made himself unavailable for the tournament. Lasith Malinga was not included in Mumbai Indians squad in the recently retained players list of IPL 2021.
The cricketer expressed his thoughts and said: “After taking the suggestions from the family, I think this is the right time to bid goodbye to all the franchise cricket. The situation in the recent past has not been good with anyone given the pandemic. For me to travel with all the restrictions on travel and participating in full franchise cricket will not be possible for the next year and hence it is best to make this decision now.”
“I have also informed the same with Mumbai Indians management recently as they prepare themselves for the IPL 2021 auctions. All I would want to say is they have been very supportive and understanding all throughout,” Lasith Malinga said who was a part of MI since 2009 IPL.
“I would love to thank the Ambani family and the whole Mumbai Indians management for their love. Most importantly the fans and supporters for being a constant for me,” Malinga added.
Lasith Malinga has been integral part of Mumbai family and has won many games to them. Earlier in 2020 season of IPL, Lasith Malinga made himself unavailable due to his family issues and travel restrictions in the pandemic.
“Mumbai Indians have treated me like a family, supporting me in every situation both on and off the field, and always giving me confidence and freedom to express my natural game whenever I walked onto the field,” Malinga added.
“I am grateful to all Mrs Nita Ambani (Owner), Mahela Jayawardene (head coach), Akash Ambani (owner) and the whole management for their support and wish them all the luck for the rest of the season of the Indian Premier League (IPL).”
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