Rohit Sharma Picked James Pattinson As Replacement For Lasith Malinga: Mahela Jayawardene

Mumbai Indians suffered a big blow at the start of the tournament as their veteran fast bowler Lasith Malinga pulled out of the IPL 2020 due to personal reasons. Mumbai Indians had a few options to select from to replace the Sri Lankan legend but captain Rohit Sharma picked up Australia fast bowler James Pattinson.

Pattinson was roped in as the late replacement for veteran Sri Lanka paceman Lasith Malinga. He said that it is great to replace a bowler like him and also added that IPL gives bowlers to share the stage with the finest like Trent Boult and Jasprit Bumrah.

Rohit Sharma was the one to put his hand up: Mahela Jayawardene

Mumbai Indians head coach Jayawardene said that Rohit picked up Pattinson as the replacement as he believed that the Australian can add value to the side. He also mentioned that Pattinson hasn’t led the side down as he adapted quickly and formed a good partnership with Jasprit Bumrah and Trent Boult.

“I have to be honest, there were quite a few names that we discussed but Rohit was the one who put his hand up and said Patto will be someone who will add value to the attack,” Jayawardene said during a virtual press conference organised by the franchise.

“Jimmy hasn’t let us down from the day he arrived. He adapted really well and formed a good partnership with Boulty (Trent Boult) and Boom (Jasprit Bumrah) and these three guys have been good and so far it’s brilliant,” he said.

Pattinson has scalped nine wickets from seven matches thus far in IPL 2020.