In a significant move for Sri Lankan cricket, the Sri Lanka Cricket Board has announced the appointment of legendary batsman Sanath Jayasuriya as the head coach of the men’s national team. This decision follows the team's impressive performances in recent international series, including victories against cricketing giants India, England, and New Zealand. Jayasuriya’s official tenure will run from October 1, 2024, until March 31, 2026. Jayasuriya, a former captain and one of the most explosive batsmen in cricket history, has been serving as the interim head coach since July.
Under his guidance, the Sri Lankan team has seen a remarkable resurgence, culminating in a clean sweep of New Zealand in a two-match Test series on home soil. The team's consistent success includes their first ODI series win against India in 27 years and a historic Test match victory over England at home Sri Lanka's first in a decade. A statement from Sri Lanka Cricket highlighted the Executive Committee's decision to appoint Jayasuriya as a full-time head coach, citing the team's strong performances during recent tours.
As Jayasuriya takes the reins, his immediate focus will be on the upcoming limited-overs matches against the West Indies, scheduled to be held in Dambulla and Pallekele. Previously serving as a consultant for Sri Lanka Cricket, Jayasuriya’s transition to head coach marks a pivotal moment for the team. Reflecting on his illustrious playing career, which spanned from 1991 to 2007, Jayasuriya has left an indelible mark on the sport. In 110 Test matches, he amassed 6,973 runs at an average of 40.07, including 14 centuries.
In One Day Internationals (ODIs), he scored a staggering 13,430 runs in 445 matches, making him one of the all-time greats. Jayasuriya played a crucial role in Sri Lanka's historic 1996 World Cup victory. As Sri Lanka cricket enters this exciting new era under Sanath Jayasuriya's leadership, fans and players alike are hopeful for continued success and a bright future on the international stage.