Colombo: Sri Lankan fast bowler Lasith Malinga’s retirement from all forms of cricket Tuesday prompted the cricketing world to look back to his wonderful career, with his former captain and teammate, Kumar Sangakkara, leading the tributes to celebrate the 38-year-old’s illustrious career.
One of the greatest death bowlers the sport has ever seen decided to call it a day after being the most successful T20I bowler with 107 wickets. He called time on his career with 546 wickets across formats.
Malinga was the captain and kingpin amongst Sri Lanka’s pantheon that lifted the 2014 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. He has also taken the third most wickets in the ODI World Cups — 56.
“Congrats on an awesome career. Your contribution to Sri Lanka and world cricket will stand for all time. Been such a pleasure playing with you. All the very best in what you decide to do from now. So much knowledge to give. Legend !!!” tweeted Sangakkara.
Mahela Jayawardene tweeted, “Time I first faced you in the Galle nets as an 18 year old net bowler to the Curly coloured hair icon you have left us with amazing memories!! Fantastic team mate.. wishing you all the very best my friend and thank you!!”
India cricketer Surya Kumar Yadav posted a picture of Malinga with “No. 99” written on the jersey, and tweeted, “Congratulations on such an outstanding career, filled with glory @ninety9sl. Wish you all the happiness and success as you enter this new chapter (Smiling face with halo emoji).”
Malinga had on Tuesday announced his retirement from all forms of cricket, ending a decorated 16-year international career that began in 2004. The Sri Lankan had earlier announced his retirement from franchise cricket as the veteran pacer was released by Mumbai Indians (MI) ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) auction.
Malinga had bid farewell to Test cricket in 2011. The former speedster of the Islanders had bowed out from the 50-over format by recording his final One Day International (ODI) appearance for the 1996 world champions in 2019 against Bangladesh at the R Premadasa Stadium.
England’s Barmy Army too posted a picture of the bowler celebrating a wicket and wrote, “Best of luck in your retirement Lasith Malinga, some amazing battles over the years.”
Former India cricketer and IPL Governing Council member Pragyan Ojha wrote, “Congratulations malli�. On a distinguished career! Wishing you the very best for your future endeavours. God bless.”
