Mahela Jayawardene named consultant for Sri Lanka’s national and Under-19 Teams

In what can be called a major development, Mahela Jayawardene has been appointed consultant for Sri Lanka’s national and Under-19 teams. This means the former Sri Lankan captain will join the side ahead of the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup 201 in UAE and Oman. It’s indeed a major boost for the Lankan team as Jayawardene is one of the finest batters to have graced the game.

He also served Sri Lankan cricket for almost two decades and piled up a mountain of runs. Under his leadership, in fact, the Lankan Lions reached the finals in the 2007 World Cup and 2012 T20 World Cup. Hence, it would be interesting to see how his addition can help the national team. Notably, Jayawardene has proved his mettle in the mentorship role as well.

Jayawardene has been serving Mumbai Indians since the 2017 season and under his guidance, the Rohit Sharma-led side has clinched as many as three IPL titles so far. Notably, the veteran will be associated with the national team for a 7-day period from 16-23 October when the team will play Namibia, Ireland, and the Netherlands as they seek to qualify for the Group Stages.

Jayawardena has also agreed to be a consultant and mentor for Sri Lanka Under 19 as it prepares for next year’s ICC Under 19 World Cup in the West Indies. His 5-month role with the U19 Team will be performed in an ‘Honorary’ capacity.

Mahela Jayawardene’s presence is going to help the players immensely: CEO of Sri Lanka Cricket

‘’We are very happy to welcome Mahela into his new roles, as his presence with the Sri Lanka Team and the U19 Team is going to help the players immensely. ‘We are very happy to welcome Mahela into his new roles, as his presence with the Sri Lanka Team and the U19 Team is going to help the players immensely,’’ said Ashley De Silva, CEO of Sri Lanka Cricket, in a statement.

Meanwhile, Sri Lanka Cricket’s Executive Committee appointed Jayawardene for the dual roles following recommendations made by the Technical Advisory Committee of Sri Lanka Cricket. As of now, the former Sri Lankan captain is serving MI in the ongoing IPL 2021. Following the completion of the tournament, he’ll join the national team.