Rajasthan Royals have added Lasith Malinga and Paddy Upton to their coaching staff ahead of the upcoming IPL 2022 season. Malinga has been appointed as the team’s new fast-bowling coach. Meanwhile, Paddy Upton has been appointed as the Team Catalyst.
Malinga, who formerly played for the Mumbai Indians before retiring from professional franchise cricket in January, has traveled to Australia with Sri Lanka’s men’s team as their Bowling Strategy Coach. He would be required to oversee the preparation of bowling schemes in the build-up.
During the season as a fast bowling coach for Rajasthan Royals. He will need to accelerate the development of the young bowlers.
Malinga’s statement on the Rajasthan Royals appointment
Malinga stated that returning to the IPL is a tremendous experience. Joining Rajasthan Royals, a franchise that has always encouraged and developed young talent is an absolute honor.
He said that he is happy about the pace bowling unit they have assembled for the competition. He is looking forward to assisting all of the fast bowlers with their game plans and overall development.
He has had some incredible experiences with the Mumbai Indians. And he is looking forward to new adventures and making new memories along the way with Rajasthan Royals.
Rajasthan Royals on the new appointments
Upton was the RR head coach from 2013 to 2015 and then again in 2019. As a Team Catalyst, this year will play a critical role in establishing team integration by bringing them together as a cohesive.
There will be a supporting unit and they will look after their mental well-being. This will be done with the use of various mental conditioning processes and activities that aid in maintaining a healthy culture and environment. Especially within the constraints of being in a bio-bubble,” according to Rajasthan Royals in a press release.
Paddy Upton will be with the team inside the bubble for the first four weeks. He will join the team virtually.
However, Kumar Sangakkara will continue as Rajasthan Royals head coach during the season.
Sangakkara on Malinga’s and Upton’s appointment
Sangakkara stated that Malinga is probably one of the greatest T20 fast bowlers of all time. Having a personality like his around the training ground, as well as the experience he brings to the table, is definitely something they feel the team can benefit from.
It’s the same with Upton. He has been a fantastic servant to the Royals and has done a good job in fostering player togetherness as well as mental conditioning. They think he’ll be an excellent addition to our coaching staff.
He also added that they are also looking forward to continuing to work with this new team in a dual capacity throughout the year. Sangakkara hopes that their combined efforts will help them win the IPL.
