International Cricket Council (ICC) has chosen Star Sri Lankan Pacer Lasith Malinga as brand Ambassador for  ICC World Twenty20  2012 to be held in Sri Lanka.
ICC World Twenty20 2012  will be the fourth  ICC T20 World Cup  and would be held between  September 18 and October 7, 2012.  This will be the first World Twenty20 tournament held in an Asian country, the last three being held in South Africa, England and the West Indies respectively.
Malinga, who plays for Mumbai Indians in the Indian Premier League (IPL), was selected as the event ambassador in recognition of his skills as a role model both on and off the field of play.
The cricketing icon is renowned and admired for his unique cricketing style and vibrancy and is one of the world’s best Twenty20 players.
Haroon Lorgat, ICC chief executive, commenting on the event’s new ambassador, said: “It is wonderful to have Lasith Malinga as the tournament ambassador for the ICC World Twenty20 to be held in Sri Lanka. Lasith is a special player and one of the most recognisable cricketers in the world.”
“Whenever he runs in to bowl with his distinctive action, there is a thrill in the game. I am sure he will add to the buzz that has already surfaced and crowds will flock to see players like Lasith represent their country in the ICC World Twenty20.”
Malinga will be the ‘face’ of the World Cup T20 Sri Lanka 2012 advertising campaign in the host nation and will promote the event globally.
The Sri Lankan pacer commenting on his new role said, “I am honoured to play a part in the first ICC World Twenty20 tournament to be hosted in Asia. As an ambassador, I hope to take the T20 message to all communities and passionate fans across the world.”
“I sincerely thank the ICC for giving Sri Lanka the opportunity to host an event of this magnitude and I invite all cricket fans to show their support and unite in the spirit of the game.”
2012 ICC World Twenty20  will have  four groups of three in a preliminary round. India and England are in the same group and will be joined by the runner up of the ICC World Twenty20 Qualifier; Afghanistan. The Champions of the ICC World Twenty20 Qualifier; Ireland are in a group with West Indies and Australia. Sri Lanka, South Africa and Zimbabwe, and Pakistan, New Zealand and Bangladesh are the other two groups.