Mumbai Indians legend, Lasith Malinga was announced as the new Bowling Mentor for the franchise on Wednesday, 7th February 2018, after spending ten illustrious years as a player. In light of this announcement, here’s what he had to say about his new role –

Q) How do you feel about returning to MI with a new role after spending a decade here as a player?

A) I am very excited. It will be a new challenge for me, but I think it will be very interesting. It’s always great to work with young bowlers who are keen to learn.

Q) You have seen the current pace bowlers in the MI squad. What are your views about them?

A) I think they are really good bowlers. Bumrah, Mustafizur, Cummins, Jason; I think all of them are world class bowlers. We really have managed to bring in an excellent bunch of fast bowlers who can have a solid impact during the season.

Q) What will be the one thing you want to suggest to the young cricketers in the MI squad who are starting their IPL careers with us?

A) I will suggest them to stick to their natural game. Don’t try to be like someone else and just put in all the hard work you can. Working hard in training will surely show the results on the pitch.

Q) From being coached by Mahela Jayawardene, Shane Bond and Robin Singh to working alongside them – how’s the feeling like?

A) It’s a great feeling. I’ve played with Mahela in the national side for a long time. Last year he was my coach. Now I will be working with him. So professionally our roles are switching but that doesn’t change the understanding of cricket we share. Apart from that, Shane Bond has been terrific with his job. We have seen the results in the last couple of seasons. Robin has been a part of the support staff for a long time, and we’ve worked together a lot. So, I think getting along with these greats will be easy for me.

Q) You have a huge fan base in Mumbai – we all have heard the echoes of ‘Malinga’ in the Wankhede Stadium. What is your message for the Paltan?

A) Hello Paltan. I remember the way you guys cheered for me when I used to bowl the death overs or used to take wickets. That has inspired me for years and has helped me grow as a player. Now it’s time to back our new boys and support them with same passion and love.