Gary Kirsten Named Sri Lanka Men’s Head Coach

Sri Lanka Cricket has confirmed the appointment of Gary Kirsten as Sri Lanka head coach, with the former South Africa batter set to take charge of the national men’s team from 15 April.

Kirsten’s appointment follows the resignation of Sanath Jayasuriya, who stepped down after Sri Lanka’s campaign in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026.

The 58-year-old has signed a two-year contract, marking his return to international coaching after several high-profile roles in global cricket.

Kirsten’s successful coaching background

Gary Kirsten is widely recognised as one of the most successful coaches in modern cricket. His most notable achievement came when he guided India to victory in the 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup.

Following that success, Kirsten served as South Africa’s head coach from 2011 to 2013. During that period, South Africa climbed to the number-one ranking in all three formats in 2013, underlining the effectiveness of his leadership.

Most recently, Kirsten worked as a consultant for Namibia during the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, providing strategic guidance during the tournament.

Return after brief Pakistan stint

Kirsten’s move to Sri Lanka also represents his return to the international coaching circuit after a short and difficult spell with Pakistan.

He was appointed by the Pakistan Cricket Board in April 2024 on a two-year contract. However, his tenure ended early when he resigned in October 2024.

During that period, his only major assignment was the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, held in the West Indies and the United States.

Pakistan endured a disappointing campaign in that tournament, exiting in the group stage after defeats to India and the United States.

Focus on the 2027 World Cup

As Sri Lanka head coach, Kirsten’s main objective will be to prepare the national side for the 2027 ICC Cricket World Cup.

The tournament is scheduled to be co-hosted by South Africa, Namibia and Zimbabwe, and Sri Lanka Cricket hopes Kirsten’s experience will help guide the team into a competitive position ahead of the event.

Check out ICC T20 World Cup 2026 team of the tournament.

Source: https://srilankacricket.lk/