Malinga ruled out of World T20 with knee niggle

Bengaluru : Sri Lankan pace spearhead Lasith Malinga has been ruled of the ongoing World Twenty20 after failing to recover substantially from a knee injury that has plagued him since November.

The 32-year-old, who played only one match for his side in the Asia Cup, stepped down from the captaincy when it became apparent he could not guarantee his availability for the full World T20, ESPNcricinfo reported.

Malinga, who is the fourth highest wicket-taker bowler in T20s, has flown back to his home and selectors are expected to name a replacement following practice games in Colombo on Friday.

Defending champions Sri Lanka will next take on West Indies in their group stage match on Sunday. (ANI)