Experience to the fore as Sri Lanka shake up coaching panel
Sri Lanka bring in two new specialist coaches ahead of next year's ICC Men's T20 World Cup.
Sri Lanka's men's team have announced experienced coaches Julian Wood and Rene Ferdinands have joined the side in specialist coaching roles.
Wood joins on a one-year deal as the new batting coach, while Ferdinands will team up with the likes of specialist spinners Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana as the new spin bowling coach.
Best of Sri Lanka spinner Wanindu Hasaranga | T20WC 2022
Best of Sri Lanka spinner Wanindu Hasaranga at the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2022
The pair will replace Thilina Kandamby and Piyal Wijetunge in their respective roles and bring a wealth of experience to the Sri Lankan setup having held previous coaching roles around the world.
"He (Wood) brings a wealth of experience, having previously worked with the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), Gloucestershire CCC, Hampshire CCC, Middlesex CCC, and IPL franchise Punjab Kings, among others," Sri Lanka confirmed via a media release.
Kusal Mendis sparkles with a blistering ton for Sri Lanka | CWC23
Kusal Mendis hit a splendid century for Sri Lanka against Pakistan at the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup 2023
Ferdinands' resume is just as impressive, with the 56-year-old having previously represented New Zealand in first-class cricket prior to his coaching career.
"Holding a PhD in biomechanics from the University of Waikato, Ferdinands brings extensive expertise in applying science to enhance cricket performance," the release continued.
"He previously worked with the National Cricket Academy of India (NCA), delivering biomechanics-based coaching programs for elite players and coaches. A specialist in both wrist and finger spin, Rene has also served as a biomechanics consultant for New Zealand Cricket, carrying out performance evaluations and injury-risk assessments for leading bowlers."