Rajeev Shukla with Lasith Malinga. Image Credits: X
In a significant development, Lasith Malinga has made it clear that national duty comes before personal commitments. As the T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8 has already started, Lasith Malinga has decided to stay with the Sri Lanka and delay his IPL coaching duties with the Mumbai Indians.
This decision has been welcomed by former Sri Lankan great Sanath Jayasuriya, who expressed gratitude for Malinga's sacrifice.
Lasith Malinga to stay with Sri Lanka for T20 World Cup Super 8
It is important to note that prior to the T20 World Cup 2026, SLC appointed him as the fast bowling consultant for a 40-day period, starting on December 15, 2025, leading up to the T20 World Cup.
"Lasith Malinga made a big sacrifice for Sri Lanka. He informed that he wanted to stay with the Sri Lanka team instead of joining his IPL team for his coaching stint. I’m very grateful for that." 🇱🇰
"Sanath Jayasuriya, expressing happiness that Lasith Malinga is continuing with the Sri Lanka team and has delayed joining his IPL side for his coaching duties." as quoted by NewsWire.
Also Read: SL vs ENG Head To Head Records- Super 8, ICC T20 World Cup 2026
Lasith Malinga's journey with Mumbai Indians
Lasith Malinga's association with the Mumbai Indians is one of the most iconic in IPL history. Having represented MI as a bowler since the 2009, Malinga became the franchise's go-to pacer for several years.
Taking a look at his IPL career, the star pacer has played 122 matches for the Mumbai Indians and bagged 170 wickets at an economy rate of 7.14.
After his playing days ended, Malinga transitioned seamlessly into coaching and has been an integral part of MI's coaching staff since 2018.
Serving as the bowling mentor and later the bowling coach, Malinga played a crucial role in shaping the careers of MI's fast bowlers.
With IPL 2026 fast approaching, Malinga was set to join MI's coaching team once again. However, the former Sri Lankan bowler made the decision to stay with the Sri Lanka team ahead of the Super 8 round of the T20 World Cup.
Sri Lanka's impressive T20 World Cup journey so far
Sri Lanka has had an impressive run in the T20 World Cup 2026, starting with a dominant performance in Group B. The team won three of their four group matches, defeating Ireland by 20 runs, Oman by 105 runs, and Australia by eight wickets.
One of the standout performances was from opener Pathum Nissanka, who scored an unbeaten 100 runs to seal a comprehensive victory over Australia.
Despite a late loss to Zimbabwe, Sri Lanka’s early victories ensured their place in the Super 8 stage of the competition. Sri Lanka will now face tough opponents in the next phase of the tournament.
It is vital to note that Sri Lanka has been placed in Group 2 alongside England, New Zealand and Pakistan. Sri Lanka will face England at Pallekele International Cricket Stadium on Sunday, February 22, in their first Super 8 match.
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