On Monday, October 7, Sanath Jayasuriya was named head coach of Sri Lanka full-time following his outstanding results as interim coach. With a contract that expires in March 2026, the renowned cricket player will have 1.5 years to assist Sri Lankan cricket in regaining its former prominence.
Following the team’s miserable performance in the T20 World Cup in June, Chris Silverwood resigned, and Jayasuriya assumed leadership as the team’s acting head coach. Following the appointment of the former opener, Sri Lanka’s results significantly improved as they won a bilateral ODI series against India after 27 years and a Test match on English soil after ten. They just defeated New Zealand handily in a two-game Test series played in Galle.
After being appointed, the former captain of Sri Lanka told the media that he instilled faith and confidence in the team. Jayasuriya agrees that some of the success was due to luck.
“I’ve always maintained that confidence and trust are the most important factors. It’s crucial that I built that around the team. In addition, I believe that some luck played a role. Even though you put in a lot of effort, luck is still necessary occasionally, Jayasuriya stated, as reported.
I’ll always play for the Sri Lanka cricket squad that is most effective: Sanath Jayasuriya
As a local coach, Jayasuriya added, it facilitates communication between himself and his players, allowing them to express themselves freely. The 55-year-old added that he will field the team that is best for Sri Lankan cricket and that his coaching philosophy does not allow for favoritism.
“First and foremost, communication comes naturally to me. They can talk to me openly about whatever problems they are having, and we can easily resolve them. They can accomplish that with confidence. They are aware of my value because they know the type of cricket I played,” Jayasuriya remarked.
Also Read: Sanath Jayasuriya named as Sri Lanka’s full-time head coach
“But as a local coach, I have obligations; I don’t have any preferences. I’ll always play for the Sri Lankan cricket squad that is most effective. I’m aware that a local instructor won’t likely be hired in my place. Thus, I too have a responsibility there,” he continued.
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