LPL 2020: Munaf Patel to Represent Kandy Tuskers in Inaugural Edition of Lanka Premier League
The Sohail Khan-owned Kandy franchise has also roped in Munaf Patel, Irfan Pathan, Chris Gayle and Kusal Perera among others. The side will take on Colombo Kings in the opening fixture.
After Irfan Pathan, former Indian pacer Munaf Patel become another Indian cricketer to feature in upcoming inaugural edition of the Lanka Premier League, starting from November 26. Not just this, Patel has been signed by Kandy Tuskers, the same franchise which signed Irfan Pathan few weeks ago.
Sharing this news on their official Twitter handle on Tuesday, November 18, LPL wrote, “Former India fast bowler Munaf Patel has signed a contract to @KandyTuskers.”
The 37-year-old Indian pacer has played 13 Tests, 70 ODIs and 3 T20Is for Team India. Apart from this, Munaf Patel has also been a part of the Indian team that won the 2011 World Cup under the captaincy of Dhoni.
Sarfaraz Ahmed Ruled Out Of LPL 2020
Meanwhile a bit of sad news is coming for Galle Gladiators, their main players including the captain Sarfaraz Ahmed have ruled out of the upcoming league. Sarfaraz has withdrawn his name from the Lanka Premier League after being selected in the Pakistan squad for the New Zealand tour.
“Sarfaraz has been selected in the Pakistan squad for the New Zealand tour and hence he is not travelling (to Sri Lanka). Now we have to decide the new captain. Will sit with the team owner and the management and decide in a day or two.” Moin Khan, the Galle franchise coach, was quoted as saying by daily mirror.
Lasith Malinga’s Presence in LPL Still Doubtful
Besides Sarfaraz, the presence of veteran pacer Lasith Malinga in LPL is still not confirmed. Notably, Malinga also withdrew from just concluded Indian Premier League, played in the UAE citing personal reasons. And, now his chances of playing in the Lanka Premier League are quite suspicious.
Speaking about Malinga’s participation, Gladiators owner Nadeem Omar stated that they are trying their best to persuade Malinga as he will strengthen the pace attack of the team.
“He has not been able to train for quite some time and is a little hesitant. We are persuading him to play. He is a celebrity and we don’t want to miss him,” team owner Nadeem Omar said.
Chris Gayle Not Sure About Participation in LPL
Apart from this the Caribbean Superstar Chris Gayle is also not sure about his participation in the marquee event. He was signed in by Kandy Tuskers but it is speculated that the veteran is now negotiating the terms of his contract with the respective franchise.
