During the IPL 2024 auction held on Tuesday (December 19), Mumbai Indians (MI) made headlines by signing Nuwan Thushara, a relatively lesser-known Sri Lankan pacer, offering him a hefty paycheck of ₹4.8 crore.
What makes Thushara particularly intriguing is his bowling action, reminiscent of former Sri Lankan and Mumbai Indians’ legendary pacer, Lasith Malinga, who currently serves as the franchise’s bowling coach.
Malinga played a pivotal role in the success of the Rohit Sharma-led Mumbai Indians, contributing significantly to their championship victories over the past decade.
Having bid farewell to the IPL in 2019 after MI clinched the title by defeating CSK in the final, Malinga’s absence left a void in the team, especially in finding a suitable bowling partner for Jasprit Bumrah.
To address this gap, Mumbai Indians have taken a chance on Nuwan Thushara, recognizing his potential and unique slinging action. Despite initial interest from KKR and RCB during the auction, MI successfully secured Thushara’s services with a winning bid of ₹4.8 crore.
Nuwan Thushara will be playing for Mumbai Indians.
— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) December 19, 2023
– Malinga version in MI. pic.twitter.com/xtQdyijyds
A viral online video showcasing Thushara’s ability to bowl scorching yorkers has only added to the excitement surrounding Mumbai’s latest acquisition.