Mumbai Indians likely to release Lasith Malinga ahead of IPL 2018 auction 

MUMBAI INDIANS is most likely to release veteran Sri Lanka paceman Lasith Malinga ahead of the IPL 2018 auctions.

Although there is no confirmation on the retention policy, sources have reported that the franchises will be allowed to retain a maximum of three players. Moreover, Mumbai Indians, who were the winners of the 2017 season, witnessed a subdued performance from Malinga. The 34-year-old picked up just 11 wickets from 12 matches and conceded close to nine runs an over. 

As reported by Cricket Age, an official working close to the development divulged, 

"As per the rules, every team can preserve maximum four to five players, Mumbai Indians team management is on the opinion to release the Slinga Malinga. The Mumbai Indians can also buy him back, but as far as the auction is concerned, it looks like Lasith Malinga will find himself in the pool of players up for grabs."

Malinga is by far the highest wicket-taker in the cash-rich league. He has racked 154 wickets in 110 matches, which is 20 more than second-ranked Amit Mishra.  However, considering his form, it is hardly a surprise that Mumbai Indians has decided to let go off Malinga. Interestingly, the franchise will have the option to reacquire him at the auctions at a considerably lower price.
 

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