Rajasthan Royals have roped in Lasith Malinga as the fast bowling coach for the 2022 edition of the Indian Premier League. They have also added Paddy Upton as 'Team Catalyst.
Malinga is the leading wicket-taker of the IPL, having claimed 170 wickets while playing for Mumbai Indians from 2009 to 2019. He retired from all forms of cricket in 2021. Malinga will join his compatriot and head coach Kumar Sangakkara at the franchise.
'It's a wonderful feeling for me to return to the IPL and an absolute honour to join Rajasthan Royals, a franchise that has always promoted and developed young talent. I am excited by the pace bowling unit we have going into the tournament and looking forward to supporting all the fast bowlers with the execution of their game-plans and their overall development, said Malinga.
Upton, meanwhile, has also served as the head coach of the Royals from 2013-15 and then in 2019.
'Being the Team Catalyst, Upton will play a crucial role in establishing team integration by bringing them together as a cohesive and mutually supporting unit, and look after their mental well-being with the use of various mental conditioning processes and activities that aid in maintaining a healthy culture and environment, especially within the restrictions of being in a bio-bubble,' a Royals statement said.