MI won't miss Malinga for entire season: Suryakumar

Suryakumar Yadav on Saturday hinted that Sri Lankan pacer Lasith Malinga will soon be back to play for Mumbai Indians after he flew back home to feature in a domestic one-day tournament.

Malinga, who has played three matches for Mumbai Indians this season, took 3 for 34 in their last game against Chennai Super Kings and then flew to Colombo early next morning. He then travelled to Kandy to play Sri Lanka's domestic Super Four tournament, where he recorded career-best List A figures of 7 for 49, representing Galle.

After his departure, there were speculations that Malinga might not participate in the rest of the Indian Premier League (IPL).

"I do not think we are missing him for the whole season, not to our notice. He has done well and whenever we get him back, he will again start his service," Suryakumar told reporters here.

The 28-year-old had played the role of a finisher for Kolkata from 2014 to 2017, but since last year Mumbai Indians have asked him to bat at the top-order, and he said his ability to be flexible has kept him in good stead.

"I have always enjoyed batting anywhere because I have kept myself flexible," said Suryakumar, who had scored a 43-ball 59 to set up MI's win over Chennai Super Kings in their last match.

"As you know, when I was with other franchises I have batted at all numbers. It is a different role but at number three it is close to opening as well, so I don't see it any differently.

"Rather I look at it in a way like I have a good responsibility on my shoulders, to play a grinding innings, give a good platform for the lower order and provide firepower."
"The mood in the camp is really good, we have just won our home game. So we are focusing on our strong points, what we can do on the game day and take it from there."
"It always helps spinners and slower bowlers. We have a few plans in mind, hopefully we will have a look at the wicket and go ahead."
"The want-to-win attitude was there in our last game. So lets carry that and look forward to tomorrow game."