Lasith Malinga bears expenses of his two recent Sri Lanka trips; rejoins WC squad

Mumbai: Sri Lankan pace bowler Lasith Malinga, who had to make two recent trips to his country following the death of his mother-in-law has born his own travel expenses, it is learnt here.

According to the sources, his expenses will not be paid by the SLC (Sri Lanka Cricket) board.

"We only made arrangements for his travel dates but the expenses are being paid by the bowler himself", a well-placed source said to this Reporter.

The 36-year-old right arm fast bowler had to leave the World Cup squad on June 11 immediately after the match against Bangladesh was abandoned without toss due to rain to attend the funeral (June 13) of his wife's mother.

He returned a day prior to the team's match and played against Australia on 15th June and went again to Sri Lanka for mother-in-law's alms giving.

"He joined the World Cup squad again on Wednesday early morning and "most likely" to play against England on Friday", the source said.

"He is used to this (heavy travelling) and can play the match without fatigue. This was evident when made few trips between India and Sri Lanka (to play the provincial tournament) during the IPL".

The match against England on Tuesday will also be witnessed by Shammi Silva, the SLC chief.

"He is reaching in England on Wednesday. He will address the players and also the pep talks by the coach and the team manager (chief selector) Ashantha de Mel will be given to the players", the source, privy to the information, said.