IPL 2019 Auction: Mumbai Indians Pick Lasith Malinga for INR 2 Crores

One of IPL’s true star, Lasith Malinga promised to be back in the circuit ahead of the IPL 2019 auctions. Though the Sri Lankan pacer missed out from action last year, he had played a key role for Mumbai Indians and had often mentored the young pool of fast bowlers in the dugout. Meanwhile, Malinga earlier got named as the skipper of the side for the limited-overs game against New Zealand.

Lasith Malinga goes back to Mumbai Indians

Sri Lankan fast bowler Lasith Malinga sold for 2 crores Indian Rupees to Mumbai Indians team at the IPL auction 2019- https://t.co/UE0xsYaVWx

— Roshan Abeysinghe (@RoshanCricket) December 18, 2018

Mumbai Indians gunned for their key man, and they successfully roped in the pacer for INR two crores. Moreover, Malinga will once again spearhead the fast bowling pack.

Skipper Rohit Sharma has got a lot of faith in the Lankan seamer. Also, Malinga brings in a lot of experience, as he will once again operate with Jasprit Bumrah.

However, there were reports of uncertainty over his availability due to national commitments. Ashantha De Mel, the Chief Selector, had earlier said the decision is on hold.

“At this stage, we don’t come into the picture. That decision (whether to issue him a NOC) will be taken by the coaches and the board”, he was quoted as saying by Kashmir Times.

SLINGA. IS. BACK ?#CricketMeriJaan #IPLAuction pic.twitter.com/1V2CJq3SpC

— Mumbai Indians (@mipaltan) December 18, 2018

Mumbai looks solid on papers

Meanwhile, the blue brigade bought Quinton de Kock from the transfer window. Though the Proteas batter represented RCB previously, his presence in Mumbai will stable their batting unit.

Furthermore, with Mumbai Indians already dubbed with some lethal all-rounders and Lasith Malinga now joining forces; it will strengthen the side even more.

Here is the complete list of the squad –