As we gear up for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, Sri Lanka Cricket has brought on board former fast bowler Lasith Malinga as a consultant for the national men’s team. Malinga will be stepping into this role on a short-term basis, starting from December 15, 2025, and wrapping up on January 25, 2026. During this month, the iconic bowler will collaborate closely with Sri Lanka’s fast bowlers to prepare them for the T20 World Cup, which kicks off on February 7, 2026. The tournament will launch with its opening match at the Sinhalese Sports Club (SSC) in Colombo. Given that home conditions are expected to be a significant factor, SLC has decided to leverage Malinga’s extensive international experience, particularly his skills in death bowling. In an official announcement, Sri Lanka Cricket explained that Malinga’s involvement will be crucial in boosting the performance of the country’s fast bowlers, especially in the fast-paced T20 format. Also Read | Explained: Why BPL Matches Were Postponed on December 30 Sri Lanka to Tour Pakistan for Three-Match T20I Series in January Malinga has an impressive record, having played 84 T20 Internationals for Sri Lanka and taking 107 wickets, with a standout performance of 5 for 6. He was also a key player in Sri Lanka’s 2014 T20 World Cup victory, where they triumphed over India, led by MS Dhoni, in the final. Additionally, Malinga is a well-known figure in the IPL, having claimed 170 wickets in 122 matches for the Mumbai Indians, where he currently serves as their bowling coach. It’s worth noting that co-hosts Sri Lanka are in Group B of the T20 World Cup, alongside Australia, Ireland, Zimbabwe, and Oman. They will kick off their campaign on February 8 against Ireland at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. Before the tournament, the team is also set to face Pakistan in a three-match T20I series in January.