IPL 2019: 3 international captains who did not play the first IPL match of their respective teams

#2 Lasith Malinga

Lasith Malinga

Mumbai Indians have had a very disappointing start to the 2019 season. Their bowlers were dominated by the Delhi Capitals batsmen, who looked unstoppable as they notched up 213/6 in the first innings.

Although the Mumbai players batted well, the 200+ target was too tough for them to chase down. Ultimately they fell short, being bundled out for 176.

Things could've been a bit different if they had their veteran pacer Lasith Malinga in the lineup. The Sri Lankan bowler is the highest wicket-taker in the IPL with 154 wickets in 110 innings. That record is sufficient to argue that he could've countered the onslaught from Delhi.

Initially, the Sri Lankan board was hesitant to allow Malinga for IPL participation owing to the upcoming World Cup, and he sat out the first match accordingly. However, the SLC have given him permission to play, so he is likely to feature in a few of MI's matches this season.

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