Sri Lanka and Mumbai pacer Lasith Malinga has pulled out of the 13th edition of the Indian T20 League due to 'personal reasons' with Australia's James Pattinson replacing the veteran in the squad.
Pattinson, who is yet to feature in the Indian T20 League, played for Brisbane Heat in this year's edition of the Big Bash League. As for Malinga, it is understood that he decided to leave because of his father's ill health that may require surgery in coming weeks.
"Lasith Malinga has requested unavailability for the season for personal reasons and to be with family back home in Sri Lanka," read an official statement from Mumbai.
"He is a legend and a pillar of (Mumbai’s) strength. There is no denying the fact that we will miss Lasith’s cricketing acumen this season. However, we fully understand Lasith’s need to be in Sri Lanka with his family during this time.
"James Pattinson will join the (Mumbai) Family currently based in Abu Dhabi this weekend."
More to follow...
