Colombo: Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) on Tuesday announced the appointment of legendary fast bowler Lasith Malinga as the consultant-pace coach of its national men’s cricket team for a period of one month.
According to the cricket body, in his short-term appointment effective from December 15 to January 25, Malinga will work to prepare and develop Sri Lanka’s fast bowlers leading up to the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, co-hosted by India from February 7 to March 8.
“Sri Lanka Cricket wishes to announce the appointment of Lasith Malinga as Consultant – Fast Bowling Coach for the Men’s National Team,” SLC said in a statement.
“His appointment will be on a short-term basis for a period of one month, with effect from December 15 to January 25, 2026.
“Malinga will support the preparation and development of Sri Lanka’s national fast bowlers as part of the build-up to the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026.
“Sri Lanka Cricket aims to utilize Malinga’s vast international experience and renowned expertise in death bowling.
For the uninitiated, Malinga is considered one of the most decorated fast bowlers to have played international cricket for Sri Lanka. The right-arm fast bowler has taken 546 wickets in his glittering career spanning nearly 16 years.
In 2014, he won the Men’s T20 World Cup title for the first time for the Sri Lankan team.
Meanwhile, Sri Lanka will begin their T20 World Cup 2026 campaign against Ireland on February 8, while their remaining group-stage matches are scheduled against Oman and Australia on February 12 and 16 respectively.