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IPL 2019: ‘Jasprit Bumrah has benefitted from spending time with him’ – Zaheer Khan reveals MI pacer’s idol
Former India cricketer Zaheer Khan — who now takes up the role of Director of Cricket Operations at the Mumbai Indians — recently revealed that Bumrah idolises Sri Lanka speedster Malinga.
After failing to seal a spot in the play-offs last time around, three-time champions Mumbai Indians will look to turn their fortunes around in the 12th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) starting Saturday.
For that to happen, speedster Jasprit Bumrah — who is regarded as one of the best in business — will have to be at the top of his game. In the last three seasons, Bumrah has scalped 15, 20 and 17 wickets respectively and same will be expected of the number one ODI bowler in the world.
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Former India and Mumbai Indians’ cricketer Zaheer Khan — who now takes up the role of Director of Cricket Operations at the franchise — recently revealed that Bumrah idolises Sri Lanka speedster Lasith Malinga and spending time with him as helped the India pacer become a better bowler.
Malinga has been added to the MI squad following the 2018 season where he was part of the coaching staff. Zaheer feels that Malinga’s presence will add valuable experience to the team as he remains the highest wicket-taker in the history of the league.
“We are excited about it (Malinga’s return). The kind of experience he brings to the table is immense. Not only with his bowling but when you’re in a game situation, it’s a relief for Rohit and other bowlers who trust his experience and the valuable advice,” Zaheer told the reporters on Tuesday.
“As a coaching staff, you can plan things, but when things are happening in real time, a proactive person on the field makes a huge difference in terms of decision making. And you have someone like Malinga as well.
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“Bumrah kind of idolises him as well. Malinga in his peak and Bumrah are two similar kind of bowlers. Bumrah has benefitted spending time with Malinga,” the 2011 World cup winner added.
Bumrah will be seen in action on Sunday when Mumbai Indians play their first match of the season against Delhi Capitals at the Wankhede Stadium.
