Former captain Sanath Jayasuriya has been appointed as the full-time head coach of the Sri Lankan cricket team, with a contract running until the conclusion of the 2026 T20 World Cup. Jayasuriya, who had served as interim coach since early July, demonstrated his capabilities by achieving notable victories against India and England, prompting Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) to offer him the permanent position.
During his interim tenure, Jayasuriya led the team to its first bilateral ODI series win against India in 27 years, along with a Test series victory over England in their own backyard for the first time in a decade. More recently, he guided Sri Lanka to a 2-0 Test series win against New Zealand at home.
The decision by SLC’s Executive Committee to appoint Jayasuriya as head coach was influenced by the team's improved performances during recent tours. The appointment took effect on October 1, 2024, and is set to last until March 31, 2026. Jayasuriya's first major assignment in this role will be the limited-overs series against the West Indies, commencing in Dambulla on October 13.