Sri Lanka bowling spearhead Lasith Malinga has been dropped from the upcoming ODI series against Pakistan, as selectors have decided to move on considering the 2019 world cup, Cricket Age has reliably learnt.
“Malinga has not been considered due to current form and in considering Sri Lanka’s 2019 WC aspirations” A top SLC official told Cricket Age.
One of the most destructive Shorter formats bowler world cricket has ever seen, Malinga had been largely out of form Since making a comeback to the national team during T20 series against Australia, earlier in the year. He has taken only 10 wickets in 13 matches since his return.
“In the Zimbabwe and India series, I couldn’t play well. I will see where I am at and evaluate how long I can play” he said at the end of the recently concluded home series against India.
With 301 wickets from 204 matches at a bowling average of 28.92, Malinga is the fourth leading wicket-taker for Sri Lanka. Interim coach Nic Pothas and ODI captain Upul Tharanga has backed Malinga after indifferent form, by stating that his experience is still valuable to the young team. But, the newly appointed selection committee, led by Graeme Labrooy has made its decision it seems.
