Sanath Jayasuriya’s remarkable success as Sri Lanka’s interim head coach has prompted Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) to extend his contract for a year. Since taking over in July, Jayasuriya has guided the team to notable victories, including an ODI series win over India, a Test triumph at The Oval, and another Test victory against New Zealand in Galle.
Jayasuriya’s appointment as permanent head coach was initially uncertain, as SLC had advertised the position following Chris Silverwood’s departure. However, the team’s improved performances under Jayasuriya’s leadership have convinced SLC to offer him a longer-term contract.
“We are in the final stages of negotiating the contract with him,” said SLC CEO Ashley de Silva. “Probably in the next two or three days you will get to hear more.”
Jayasuriya’s initial role as cricket consultant, appointed in December 2022, was primarily focused on working with the High Performance Centre. However, he accompanied the team to the T20 World Cup and subsequently assumed the head coach position.
Under Jayasuriya’s guidance, Sri Lanka has also experienced setbacks, including a T20I series loss to India and two Test defeats in England. Nonetheless, the team’s overall progress has been significant, with a strong chance of qualifying for the World Test Championship final.
Jayasuriya’s contract extension will extend beyond the current World Test Championship cycle. Feedback from players has been overwhelmingly positive, with Angelo Mathews, the most experienced Test player, praising Jayasuriya’s leadership.
“Sanath Jayasuriya was superb as cricket director and now as coach,” said Mathews. “He communicates well and has given us a lot of freedom. We are all working towards one goal, and now everyone is on the same page. He’s also done a superb job grooming the players. He has been amazing. I wish him all the very best.”
Jayasuriya’s previous stints as chief selector were marked by mixed results. However, his current assignment has brought greater stability to the team.
