In one of the most important development for Sri Lanka cricket, the bowling spearhead Lasith Malinga has shown his willingness to play the World Cup for his country despite being removed as captain, Cricket Age reliably learns.
On Wednesday, the selection committee named Dimuth Karunaratne as the captain of the team for the World Cup replacing Malinga. On Thursday, however, he was included in the squad, despite the ongoing rumors that the iconic bowler might announce his retirement.
However, being a true servant of Sri Lanka cricket, Malinga has decided to play the World Cup and to give his contribution in bringing the glory for the motherland.
Malinga, even though could not uplift the performance of the team under his captaincy, was hoping to lead the team in the mega event. In last two weeks, he has done everything (by playing in IPL and in domestic tournament tirelessly) to save his captaincy. After a long time, he is in devastating form with the ball for Mumbai Indians and more importantly has shown the commitment, fitness and form.
Shammi Silva, the Sri Lanka Cricket Board (SLC) president, on Thursday, also urged Malinga to play in the World Cup.
“Lasith Malinga is a player who plays for the country giving his best, we want him to play and hopes he won’t take a harsh decision” he had said on Malinga’s retirement rumours.
One of the greatest bowler in world cricket history, Malinga has so far played 218 ODIs for Sri Lanka and has taken 322 wickets.
