SLC onboards Bharat Arun, Jonty Rhodes to coaching staff

Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has bolstered its coaching staff with the latest additions. Bharat Arun, the former India fast bowling coach, and former South African cricketer Jonty Rhodes were added to Sri Lanka's coaching setup. Meanwhile, former Sri Lankan physiotherapist Alex Kountouri has also found a spot in the mix during the announcement.

The board adopted the decision to strengthen their coaching staff during the recent meeting of the Executive Committee of SLC, on January 16, 2024, administered by President Shammi Silva. Apart from this, SLC has made numerous decisions for the advancement of the game in the island nation.

“Sri Lanka Cricket decided to obtain the services of some of the best-known talents in international cricket to provide advanced training for local coaches, trainers, and physiotherapists to enhance their skills and competencies by conducting periodic training programs in selected areas,” SLC said in a release.

“Towards this, the Executive Committee decided to obtain the services of former South African cricketer Jonty Rhodes, who is a specialist fielding coach—former India National Team fast bowling coach Bharat Arun—and former Sri Lanka National Team physiotherapist Alex Kountouri,” it added.

SLC Executive Committee has also announced an award scheme for the junior cricketers who showcase extraordinary performances in the Sri Lanka school cricket tournaments, conducted annually by the Schools Cricket Association of Sri Lanka in association with the cricketing body. The cricketers from the U15 category, leading up to U17, will be recognized under the program. The board also decided to increase the match fees of the players participating in the National Super League (NSL) and recognize the retiring match officials.

Sri Lanka aims to clinch T20I series vs Zimbabwe

Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe are all set to lock horns in the T20I series decider on January 18 which is scheduled to be held at the R Premadasa International Cricket Stadium in Colombo. The tourists levelled the series 1-1 after a four-wicket win in the second T20I contested at the same stadium. The Sikandar Raza-led side delivered a top-notch performance while chasing a challenging 174-run target. Both sides are expected to strive to do all right in the final game to take the trophy home.