Calcutta: Mumbai Indians on Wednesday announced the appointment Sri Lankan pacer Lasith Malinga as the bowling mentor for the upcoming Indian Premier League season.

Malinga, who has been at the core of Mumbai Indians winning combinations in the previous editions, hasn't been in top form of late. He went unsold in the recently held IPL auction. The Sri Lankan has donned the Mumbai Indians jersey featuring in 110 matches of the 157 the franchise has played so far, according to a media release.

A veteran of over 200 ODIs, Malinga will join the Mumbai Indians support staff headed by coach Mahela Jayawardane, bowling coach Shane Bond, batting coach Robin Singh and newly appointed fielding coach James Pemment.

"It's a great opportunity to be present with, and an honour to continue my association with the Mumbai Indians. As a player, I have enjoyed the journey with the Mumbai Indians, and now as mentor, I look forward to the new chapter," Malinga was quoted as saying in the media release.

Mumbai Indians owner Akash Ambani feels having Malinga as a mentor will help the young talents the franchise has in the team.