After going through the latest interview of the legendary Sri Lankan bowler Lasith Malinga, it seems that that the curtains are set to close on a champion’s career. He hinted of retirement before 2019 World Cup which is scheduled to be played in England.

Malinga has not been playing in the national squad since September, having last featured in the one-off T20I against India at Colombo. In another blow to his career, Lasith, who has been one of the pillars for Mumbai Indians (MI) and the highest wicket-taker in the Indian Premier League (IPL), went unsold in the IPL Auction 2018.

Also read: Malinga unhappy Sri Lankan selectors

In his IPL career of 110 matches which he played for MI, Malinga claimed 154 wickets. He was also Purple Cap holder in 2011 edition. He also played a crucial role in MI’s triumph in the final of the previous edition.

Malinga, in a recent interview to Sunday Times, expressed his desire to enter off-the-field roles like mentorship or coaching. “If my services are not required any longer as a player, it’s time to move on. I know there’s still cricket left in me and if I cannot contribute as a player, I am ready to venture into mentoring leading up to the World Cup.”

Also read: Malinga - the off-spinner

He further added, “If someone calls me today and says ‘Look, we would like to have you within our coaching team for the World Cup’, I am ready to accept it. Not because of anything but I want to share my knowledge with others when I can.” 

In recent times, Malinga has struggled a lot due to his injuries and fitness related issues. Having made his debut in 2004, Malinga has represented Sri Lanka in 30 Tests, 204 ODI’s and 68 T20Is. He starred with the ball in the 2007 and 2011 World Cups as Sri Lanka finished runners-up on consecutive editions. He led Sri Lanka to their first ever World T20 win in 2014.