Sanath Jayasuriya Named Permanent Head Coach of Sri Lanka Men’s Cricket Team

Colombo: Sri Lanka Cricket has appointed former captain Sanath Jayasuriya as the head coach of the national men’s team, following a string of successful performances against India, England and New Zealand. His tenure began on October 1, 2024 and will run until March 31, 2026.

Jayasuriya, who served as interim head coach during these tours, led the team to significant victories, including their first ODI series win against India in 27 years, a Test match victory over England after 10 years and a 2-0 home Test series sweep against New Zealand. Sri Lanka Cricket cited these achievements as key reasons for his permanent appointment.

Jayasuriya’s first official assignment as head coach will be the limited-overs series against the West Indies, to be played in Dambulla and Pallekele.

Previously, Jayasuriya held the role of cricket consultant for Sri Lanka Cricket and was appointed interim coach after the exit of former coach Chris Silverwood post a disappointing 2024 T20 World Cup campaign. Jayasuriya’s leadership has been credited with revitalising the team.

As a player, Jayasuriya enjoyed a prolific international career from 1991 to 2007, accumulating 6,973 runs in 110 Test matches and 13,430 runs in 445 ODIs. He was instrumental in Sri Lanka’s 1996 ODI World Cup triumph.