2019 IPL Auction: 5 Deals that Shocked the World

#3 Lasith Malinga (Bought by Mumbai Indians for INR 2 Crore)

Malinga will turn out for the Mumbai Indians in 2019

The Sri Lankan speedster was bought by the Mumbai Indians at his base price of INR 2 Crore. Having served as a mentor for them in 2018, he returns to their fold as a player this time.

Despite making a comeback to international cricket recently, it is not a hidden fact that Malinga is not the same bowler he once was. Though he can produce a sublime spell every now and then, he is highly unreliable in terms of injuries.

With INR 2 Crore in the bank, Mumbai could’ve gone in for bowlers like Viljoen and Ferguson. However, they decided better of it.

Thus, the decision by Mumbai to bring him on board seems to lean towards sentimental reasons rather than cricketing reasons. The Sri Lankan has served Mumbai for years and the franchisee could just be wanting to give him a proper send-off.

Whatever the case maybe, the deal for Malinga left everyone surprised in the room and hence, it comes as no surprise that he makes our list.