At a time when most of his contemporaries have either called it a day or are contemplating retirement, Lasith Malinga continues to spearhead the Sri Lankan pace bowling attack.
At 35, he is hungry for more success. Sportstar caught up with the pace ace.
You have had a memorable World Cup...
I am happy to play for the national team, especially since this is my last World Cup. I have really enjoyed it. There is camaraderie between the seniors and youngsters. I don’t take any pressure, try to stay relaxed and play my natural game.
Jasprit Bumrah has time and again admitted that you have helped him immensely at Mumbai Indians…
(Laughs) When I met ‘Boom’ for the first time in 2013, he was a young kid. He had pace, but the only thing lacking was accuracy. But he was always willing to learn and was extremely committed to the game. He soon realised that in T20s only skilful players can survive. He learnt everything quickly — be it the slower ball, inswinger or outswinger. He has that confidence and that’s why he is No. 1 now. I don’t think he has any pressure. That’s why he can deliver six yorkers and one slow ball at ease. I hope in the next one year he improves on how to analyse a game. Then nobody can beat him.
There was talk that you will announce your retirement after the World Cup...
After the World Cup, I plan to play a little more before ending my ODI career. I want to share my knowledge with the young bowlers after that.
