Sri Lanka bowling legend Lasith Malinga is unlikely to participate in the Indian Premier League (IPL) this year.

Newswire learns the former Sri Lankan pacer has opted to forego the tournament due to personal family reasons.

Malinga was instrumental in winning the IPL for Mumbai Indians several times, including as recent as 2019.

However, sources have confirmed that he is unlikely to participate in the IPL 2020.

With Lasith Malinga likely to opt-out, Isuru Udana will be the only Sri Lankan player to participate in the IPL this year.

Isuru Udana who will play for the Bangalore Royal Challengers led by Virat Kohli was also scheduled to leave for the UAE.

Meanwhile, former Sri Lanka skipper Mahela Jayawardena left for the United Arab Emirates (UAE) yesterday to participate in the IPL.

Mahela Jayawardana will be coaching the defending champions Mumbai Indians for the 4th consecutive season this year. Under Mahela Jayawardana Mumbai Indians won the IPL championship twice in 3 attempts.

Sri Lanka spin bowling legend Muttiah Muralitharan, who will be the bowling mentor for the Sunrisers Hyderabad team will leave for the UAE on 04 September along with Sunrisers Hyderabad fitness trainer Mario Vellawarayan.

The 13th edition of the Indian Premier League will kick off in Dubai on 19 September and is expected to conclude on 08 November. (Newswire)