Neil McKenzie, a former South African batter, has been appointed as the consultant coach for the Sri Lankan cricket team ahead of their crucial two-match Test series against South Africa, commencing on November 27. McKenzie’s appointment is a strategic move by Sri Lanka Cricket to gain valuable insights into the South African conditions and enhance their chances of success in the upcoming series.
McKenzie, who played 58 Test matches for South Africa between 2000 and 2009, amassed over 3,253 runs, including five centuries and 16 fifties. His experience as an opening batsman, particularly his record-breaking 415-run partnership with Graeme Smith against Bangladesh in 2008, will be invaluable to the Sri Lankan team.
Since retiring from international cricket, McKenzie has gained extensive coaching experience in various roles. He served as South Africa’s batting consultant during the ICC World Test Championship series against the West Indies last year and was part of the Royal Challengers Bangalore setup in the Indian Premier League as a batting coach earlier this year.
Sri Lanka’s decision to appoint McKenzie as a consultant coach is part of their strategy to improve their performance in the ongoing World Test Championship cycle. Currently placed third in the points table, Sri Lanka is in contention for a spot in next year’s WTC Final. The two-match Test series against South Africa will be their final away series in the current cycle, and a positive result could significantly boost their chances of qualifying for the final.
McKenzie’s appointment has been welcomed by Sri Lanka Cricket CEO Ashley De Silva, who believes his insights into the South African conditions will be crucial for the team’s success. “McKenzie will bring in vital, in-depth insights about the South African conditions to help Sri Lankan players adapt to the challenge,” De Silva said.
The first Test match between Sri Lanka and South Africa will be played at Kingsmead in Durban from November 27, followed by the second Test at St. George’s Oval in Port Elizabeth.
