Asia Cup T20: Still not fully recovered, says Lasith Malinga after match-winning effort

Malinga efforts made the difference after Sri Lanka put up a small total of 129/8, when offered to bat first.

New Delhi: Sri Lanka T20I skipper Lasith Malinga led his team by example in their first Asia Cup match against minnows UAE on Thursday.

Slinger Malinga, who made a comeback in the national team after recovering from injury, picked up four wickets to make sure that defending champions start their campaign on a winning note.

However, in the post match conference, the 32-year-old bowler said that he is still not fully fit, raising questions on the skipper's further participation in the tournament.

"I am not alright. I have still not fully recovered. I wanted to play this match and help the other players and show them you can do whatever the team needs," said Malinga after leading his team to a 14-run win over UAE.

His effort made the difference after Sri Lanka put up a small total of 129/8, when offered to bat first.

Malinga also believes that Sri Lakan batting needs to improve.

"Yes it (batting) is an issue. After the retirement of Sanga (Kumar Sangakkara) and Mahela, we will have to give time to the youngsters," the captain added.