After much delay, the thirteenth edition of IPL is all set to take off in UAE from September 19. As per reports, the first match may be played between Mumbai Indians and Royal Challengers Bangalore. Earlier it was being speculated that the first match would be between Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians. The reason for RCB to replace the team in yellow is because 12 people from the team including the coaching and support staff have tested for coronavirus.
However, this may not be the only change that the pandemic may have on the tournament. Certain players too may have to be replaced. The first big change that has been announced by Mumbai Indians is that they have signed Australian fast bowler James Pattinson. Pattinson is replacing for Sri Lankan speedster Lasith Malinga, who won't be available for IPL 2020. It is being said that Malinga wants to spend time with his family back home in Sri Lanka and thus won't be able to join the squad.
In a statement released by Mumbai Indians have shared, "Lasith is a legend and a pillar of MI's strength. There is no denying the fact that we will miss Lasith's cricketing acumen this season. However, we fully understand Lasith's need to be in Sri Lanka with his family during this time." Even earlier it was said that Lasith wants to be around his ailing father and may miss a few matches but now it is confirmed that he will not be playing at all in this season.
Coming over to Pattinson, he had made a great comeback last year in the Ashes matches and Mumbai Indians would be counting on him to take some early wicket. In the earlier seasons of IPL, Pattinson has been a part of the Kolkata Knight Riders in 2011 but never been in the top 11 list. Hopefully, he will make most of the season and help Mumbai Indians bring home the cup for the fifth time.
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