‘Your contribution to world cricket will stand for all time’
One of the greatest death bowlers the sport has ever seen decided to ‘hang his T20I shoes’ as the most successful T20I bowler with 107 wickets. Malinga called time to 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 ends his career as the most prolific T20I bowler for Sri Lanka in the T20WCs and second overall. He has also taken the third most wickets in the ODI World Cups – 56.
His former Captain and teammate, Kumar Sangakkara was the first to congratulate him alongside Mahela Jayawardene on his illustrious career. (ICC)
Kumar Sangakkata: “Congrats on an awesome career. Your contribution to Sri Lanka and world cricket will stand for all time. It’s 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.”
Mahela Jayawardene: “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!! You are a fantastic teammate. Wishing you all the very best my friend and thank you.”
Dimuth Karunaratne: “There has never been a bowler like him and there never will be. Happy retirement slinger.”
Pragyan Ojha: “Congratulations ‘malli’ on a distinguished career! Wishing you the very best for your future endeavours. God bless.”
Russel Arnold: “How unique. What a star. One of a kind on and off the field. Great memories. Well done on an amazing career and wish you well in retirement.”
Dhammika Prasad: “Thank you very much legend for your service. You were a great servant for Sri Lanka cricket for many years, can’t forget your deadly yorkers and the spells which you bowled.”
Mitchell McClenaghan: “Much love mate – loved every moment with you. A genuine legend and keep smiling my guy.”
Angelo Mathews: Congratulations on a remarkable career, lots of fond memories together! Wishing you all the best for life after retirement.”
Harsha Bhogle: “One of Sri Lanka’s finest and one of the greatest IPL players ever, Lasith Malinga says goodbye to the game. The chants of ‘Maa-lin-gaa Maa-lin-gaa’ from the fans at the Wankhede Stadium will be part of IPL folklore.”
Farveez Maharoof: “Was an honour and great memories turning up to train, play for Nondescripts CC and many other domestic teams for 15 years. Happy retirement life brother and I am sure, your invaluable experience will be great help for the youngsters in the cricketing system. Good luck!”