IPL 2019: Zaheer Khan to replace Lasith Malinga as Mumbai Indians bowling mentor?

Mumbai: Zaheer Khan could make a comeback in Mumbai Indians’ colours again for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2019 season – this time – as part of the coaching staff.

It is learnt the former India speedster could reportedly replace Lasith Malinga as the bowling mentor for the Paltans ahead of the upcoming campaign.

Malinga took over the role last year under the coaching of compatriot Mahela Jayawardena after going unsold during the IPL 2018 auctions. The Sri Lankan veteran, however, is looking forward to playing the league again and if not picked by the three-time winners, there is a possibility of the 35-year-old pacer playing for another franchise.

“It is expected. Malinga has been playing other leagues of the world. He had even played for Sri Lanka in the Asia Cup, and he wants to test himself in the IPL which precedes the World Cup. He wants to play in the IPL to be match-fit for the World Cup,” a close source was quoted as saying by Mumbai Mirror.

If Zaheer completes the move, this will be his first coaching assignment with an IPL team. Just like Malinga, the former left-arm bowler was unpicked in the IPL 2018 auctions that meant his career in the cash-rich league came to an end.

The probability of Malinga being roped in by another team is also high given that the 2019 edition could be shifted to South Africa, UAE considering the general elections in India. He also on the radar of Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK), who are eyeing the addition of an overseas pacer to their roster.