Chandika Hathurusingha to take over as Sri Lanka's new head coach

Sri Lankan cricket is in the middle of a tough phase, and the results speak for itself. From failed captaincy to poor match tactics, the Islanders have failed to capitalize on any opportunity on their tours. And now, following the approval of the Executive Committee on 6th December, Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC), earlier today announced Chandika Hathurusingha as the new Head Coach of the national team. SLC will also host a Press briefing to introduce the veteran, who will assume duties from the 20th December.

Hathurusingha, who is largely considered as one of the best coaches in the world, is set to re-join Sri Lanka after previous stints as the head coach of the Sri Lanka A team (2006-2009) and Shadow coach of the national team (2009-2010). He has played 26 Tests and 35 ODI’s for the Lankan team and is universally known for his innovative and dynamic coaching techniques. He has been acquainted as a Shadow Coach with Sri Lanka team, during Kumar Sangakkara’s tenure as the captain.

He was also in charge of the Bangladesh cricket team and helped them turn into formidable opponents. Under his supervision, the Bangla Tigers have become one of the most competitive teams in the world, especially on their home soil. Interestingly, Hathurasingha’s first assignment as the head coach of Sri Lankan team will be the tour of Bangladesh, in January 2018.

Sri Lankan sports minister threatens to dissolve SLC

Following a disappointing year of cricket, Sports Minister Dayasiri Jayasekera on Wednesday said he would go to the extent of dissolving the present Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) administration to restore the national team’s fortune. The country has witnessed a disappointing season of cricket and the current administration has been blamed for the team’s poor run in international cricket.

Jayasekera also aims to reduce the number of votes at SLC election after it was alleged that the present voting system has promoted buying of votes at SLC elections by the country’s top businessmen.