Feb. 13: Sri Lanka have to be credited for nurturing bowlers with the most unusual bowling actions. In keeping with that glorious tradition is slinger Lasith Malinga who is a mystery for batsmen in the middle and in the nets as well.
One of the hardest bowlers to pick, ‘Slinga’ Malinga has often left batsmen dumbfounded. His pace and swing adds to their woes, making Malinga one of the few new ball merchants who have it in them to turn a match around quickly. It was no surprise that the Mumbai Indians retained him at a high cost, even ahead of Zaheer Khan. No coaching is sufficient to prepare against Malinga and his toe-crushers.
Strengths
Swing from a peculiar angle: If the ball is to move into the batsman from around leg stump at speeds in excess of 140kmph, it’s near impossible to score. And add to that the low trajectory at which the ball is hurled, defence becomes the first priority even for batsmen of the highest class. Over the years his yorkers have become more deadly and have been spot on.
It is not easy to pick the line in the end overs where the focus is on scoring quickly. Reverse swing: The abrasive outfields in the sub-continent should help Malinga achieve reverse swing consistently.
With the ability to move the ball both ways, he becomes a deadly bowler and at times near unplayable. If he can get his rhythm going in the first few games, Sri Lanka will be tough to beat. Malinga has also managed to direct his energy well in the last few years making him more potent.
Weaknesses
Injuries: Malinga has had a long history of breaking down with injuries. A shoulder problem led him to miss crucial games in the last season. He has to be extremely careful with his body during a long campaign like the World Cup. The team management might be forced to play him sparingly in the league stage; at times it could lead to affecting team composition and balance.
No-balls and striving for pace: Malinga loses direction when going for that extra yard of pace. His tactics at times can be a double edged sword. There have been times where he has let the team down with his wayward bowling. Has a problem with over-stepping at times. Does not believe in bowling within himself and playing to the situation, and will have to curb a bit in order to deliver consistently.
Face-off
Malinga in the powerplays against any hard-hitting opener will lead to exciting viewing. The margin for error from Malinga is minimal but he has pace and swing to trouble anyone. In fact the new ball contests could decide the course of the games.