Colombo, Oct 7 (Reporter) Sri Lanka Cricket on Monday officially appointed Sanath Jayasuriya as the head coach of the national team, a decision announced on Monday. This move comes in recognition of the team’s commendable performances during recent tours against India, England, and New Zealand, where Jayasuriya served as interim head coach. Jayasuriya’s tenure began on October 1 and will extend until March 31, 2026. His extensive experience and leadership skills are anticipated to play a vital role in bolstering the team’s competitiveness on the international stage. In a statement, Sri Lanka Cricket expressed confidence in Jayasuriya’s capability to build on the positive momentum generated during the recent tours and further develop the squad’s talent. The cricketing community looks forward to this new chapter under his guidance. During his interim leadership, Sri Lanka achieved significant milestones, including a historic victory over England at The Oval and a comprehensive sweep against New Zealand in a recent Test series. The team also claimed a notable series win against India in ODIs, reflecting a marked improvement in their performance. His ability to energise the squad and implement effective strategies has garnered praise, and the Sri Lankan cricket board remains optimistic about continued success under his stewardship. Looking forward, Jayasuriya’s coaching stint will be crucial as Sri Lanka prepares for significant tournaments, including the ICC Champions Trophy and the 2026 T20 World Cup. There are high expectations for him to construct a balanced team capable of competing at the highest levels, especially in these prestigious events. His focus is expected to be on nurturing young talent and instilling a strong work ethic and tactical discipline within the team. Jayasuriya’s remarkable experience as a player, particularly his pivotal role in Sri Lanka’s 1996 World Cup triumph, lays a strong foundation for his coaching position. His tactical insights and profound understanding of the game position him as a valuable asset as the national team strives to reclaim its elite status in world cricket...////...