Mumbai Indians sign Pattinson after Malinga withdraws from IPL
Mumbai Indians have signed James Pattinson for the upcoming Indian Premier League after Lasith Malinga pulled out.
Lasith Malinga has withdrawn from the Indian Premier League for personal reasons and Mumbai Indians have signed James Pattinson to replace him.
Paceman Malinga opted out of the tournament in the United Arab Emirates, which starts on September 19, so he can be with his family in Sri Lanka.
Australia quick Pattinson will fly out to Abu Dhabi to join his new team-mates this weekend.
Indians owner Akash Ambani told the franchise's official website: "James is the right fit for us and adds to our pace attack options available at hand especially for the conditions we will play in this season.
"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.
"Mumbai Indians is founded on the values of 'One Family' and for us the members of our squad and their well-being will always hold utmost importance. We welcome James to our One Family."
