James Pattinson replaced Lasith Malinga for Mumbai Indians in IPL 13.
The defending champions Mumbai Indians were dealt with a major blow before they even began with their practice sessions in the UAE. Lasith Malinga, the leading wicket-taker in IPL, announced his unavailability for IPL 2020 in UAE and the franchise had to bring in a new foreign pacer.
They opted to go for Australia's James Pattinson and he joined the team after completing his quarantine period and has joined the nets with the MI players in the lead-up to the tournament.
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During Pattinson's first practice session in Blue and Gold this year, MI took an interview of the pacer and posted the video on their social media. During the interview, he revealed how privileged he felt to play for the 'most successful IPL team in history'.
The 30-year-old bowled alongside Jasprit Bumrah and Trent Boult. Pattinson called Bumrah 'probably the best T20 bowler in the world' and said that Trent Boult was also 'right up there'.
Watch the video posted by Mumbai Indians:
???? | Pattinson has joined the camp and is thrilled to partner with Boom and Boult! ????⚡️#OneFamily #MumbaiIndians #MI #Dream11IPL pic.twitter.com/2WAgKqi5Q7
— Mumbai Indians (@mipaltan) September 15, 2020
The Mumbai Indians will begin their IPL 2020 campaign in the tournament opener on 19 September against the Chennai Super Kings. Pattinson has the biggest shoes to fill for an IPL bowler and he will have his work cut out for the season.