SL head coach leaving post: Yet to hear from Sanath: Ashley

• Contract up for review after WC

Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) Chief Executive officer (CEO) Ashley de Silva says that they were yet to hear officially from national team head coach Sanath Jayasuriya, of the latter’s intention to quit from his post, following the forthcoming ICC Men’s T20I World Cup.

The showpiece tournament of the sport’s shortest format is due to be held from 7 February to 8 March 2026 across India and Sri Lanka. 

“At this moment in time Sanath is yet to officially convey to us (SLC) of his decision on leaving the post,” de Silva told The Daily Morning Sports.

“Therefore we need to see what his intentions are. Anyhow Sanath’s contract with us is up for review after the World Cup, and only at the end of the tournament could anything be confirmed on that front.”

Speculation has been rife in the local cricketing arena, of the ex-skipper’s decision to leave his current job with the SLC, following an interview given by him to a local newspaper over the weekend.

Meanwhile, SLC President Shammi Silva only last week remarked that the game’s controlling body here, was pleased with the work done by the incumbent head coach, commending his hands-on approach and close involvement with players.

He further added during an informal interaction with the media, that SLC intends to hold talks with Jayasuriya after the T20I World Cup linked to his future, while hinting strongly that the board is willing to continue with the ex-southpaw beyond the upcoming event.

The 56-year-old former opener took up his present role in October, 2024 after being initially appointed as the caretaker head coach for Sri Lanka’s white-ball series against India in July 2024, following the resignation of then coach Englishman Chris Silverwood.

To date under Jayasuriya’s watch, Sri Lanka has played 60 matches across all formats, recording 29 wins and a similar number of losses, with two games ending in no decision.

Sri Lanka are currently ranked sixth in Tests, fifth in ODIs and eighth in T20Is in the latest ICC Men’s Team Rankings across the three formats.

Source -The Morning