Reports: Zaheer Khan to be the bowling mentor for Mumbai Indians

Former Indian fast bowler Zaheer Khan is set to replace Lasith Malinga in a mentoring role for Mumbai Indians. Malinga, who took over as the bowling coach of Mumbai Indians after going unsold in the last season may return to play again. If not bought by Mumbai Indians, he could very well turn out for any other side.

Lasith Malinga, who has been absolutely prolific for Mumbai Indians, had taken up a mentor role with them in the last season. Malinga has taken 154 wickets in 110 matches at an average of just above 18. Should Zaheer Khan take up the coaching role, it will be his first stint as a coach for any team.

The left-arm pacer has been part of Rohit Sharma and Co, Royal Challengers Bangalore, and Delhi Daredevils, however, is yet to end up on the winning side of any team. The pacer will be determined to turn MI’s fortunes around after their miserable last season.

Although during his stay with Delhi Daredevils, he had been a player cum mentor, this could be his first assignment as the official mentor. Khan, who had retired from international cricket in 2015, looked set to play the 2018 IPL, however, his name was nowhere which meant that he had ended his IPL career.

Malinga to press his case for the World Cup by playing in Indian Premier League

“It is expected. Malinga has been playing other leagues in the world. He had even played for Sri Lanka in the Asia Cup, and he wants to test himself in the Asia Cup which precedes the World Cup. He wants to play the IPL to be match fit for the World Cup.” an IPL insider said as quoted by the report in Mumbai Mirror.

Lasith Malinga, since his first season has been part of the Mumbai Indians. The speedster has been at the helm of their bowling attack. He also bagged the Purple Cap for taking 28 wickets in 16 matches in IPL 2011. Mumbai Indians have also been one of the most consistent sides in the cash-rich tournament with three titles to their name.

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