Former Sri Lankan cricketing sensation Lasith Malinga is set to make a comeback to the Indian Premier League (IPL) scene, this time in a coaching capacity. The five-time IPL champions Mumbai Indians have officially announced that Malinga will be taking on the role of fast bowling coach for the upcoming IPL 2024 season. This move marks a return to familiar territory for Malinga, who had previously been associated with the Mumbai Indians franchise both as a player and as a mentor.
Malinga’s coaching stint comes in the wake of his recent engagement with the Rajasthan Royals in the 15th edition of the IPL. However, his association with the Mumbai Indians is nothing new. He initially served as a mentor for the team in 2018 but later made a surprise return to competitive cricket. Malinga eventually retired from playing in 2021, leaving behind a legacy of unorthodox bowling and match-winning performances.
Malinga’s appointment as fast bowling coach has garnered considerable attention, particularly due to his history of success with both the Mumbai Indians and the Rajasthan Royals. Under his guidance, the Royals experienced a significant upswing in performance during the IPL 2022, culminating in a remarkable run to the tournament’s final. Fans and cricket enthusiasts alike are curious to witness whether Malinga can replicate this coaching magic with the Mumbai Indians, who missed out on the IPL 2023 summit clash after a rollercoaster journey through the season.
Will MI let go Shane Bond?
This announcement has raised questions about the future of former New Zealand pacer Shane Bond, who had been serving as the Mumbai Indians’ fast bowling coach. While Malinga’s return is expected to inject fresh energy into the team’s bowling unit, Bond’s role and potential responsibilities within the franchise remain uncertain.
As the IPL 2024 approaches, anticipation is building among fans as to how Malinga’s insights and experience will contribute to the Mumbai Indians’ quest for another title. Given his storied history with the franchise and his recent success in a coaching role, the “Yorker King” is poised to bring his unique perspective to the forefront and potentially steer the Mumbai Indians towards another championship triumph. Cricket enthusiasts will be closely watching the team’s progress under Malinga’s mentorship and hoping to witness the resurgence of the Mumbai Indians’ dominant form on the field.
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