After Pakistan horror run, Gary Kirsten replaces Jayasuriya as Sri Lanka coach
India Today
After a tumultuous six-month stint with Pakistan in 2024, former South Africa opener Gary Kirsten has been appointed Sri Lanka's head coach on a two-year contract. He replaces Sanath Jayasuriya, who stepped down after the team's early exit from the 2026 T20 World Cup.
Sri Lanka have appointed former World Cup-winning coach Gary Kirsten as their head coach on a two-year contract. Kirsten will replace Sanath Jayasuriya, who stepped down after Sri Lanka endured a disappointing T20 World Cup campaign at home.
The 58-year-old former South Africa opener will take charge of the senior men's team across all formats from April 15, 2025, with a primary focus on helping Sri Lanka perform strongly at the 2027 ODI World Cup.
"Among Kirsten's primary responsibilities will be guiding the Sri Lanka National Men's Team in its preparation and campaign for the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup 2027, which will be held in South Africa, Namibia and Zimbabwe," Sri Lanka Cricket said in a statement on Monday, March 9.
"The appointment of the new head coach is part of Sri Lanka Cricket's efforts to revamp the structure of the National High Performance Center.
"His appointment with Sri Lanka Cricket will be for a two-year term ending on April 14, 2028," the board added.
Kirsten, who recently worked as a consultant with the Namibian national team during the T20 World Cup, had a forgettable and turbulent stint with the Pakistan team.
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