As part of their build-up to the 2026 T20 World Cup, Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has appointed Lasith Malinga as a temporary member of the national team’s coaching staff. The former pace spearhead will serve as a short-term consultant from December 15 to January 25, 2026, with SLC officially confirming the decision on Tuesday, June 30.
During his stint, Malinga will focus primarily on the development and readiness of the fast-bowling group ahead of the global event. Malinga was a key figure during Sri Lanka’s golden era between 2007 and 2014, a period that saw the team reach the finals of the ODI World Cups in 2007 and 2011.
In the shortest format, Sri Lanka finished runners-up in the 2009 and 2012 editions before clinching the T20 World Cup title in 2014 by defeating India in Mirpur. His exploits in that phase, especially his exceptional control in the death overs, firmly established him as one of the game’s greats.
Sri Lanka to start 2026 T20 World Cup vs Ireland, Malinga adds coaching strength
Sri Lanka will begin their 2026 T20 World Cup campaign against Ireland on February 8, with Australia, Oman, and Zimbabwe also featuring alongside them in the group stage.
Beyond his international achievements, Lasith Malinga brings valuable coaching experience from his time with Indian Premier League franchises such as the Mumbai Indians and Rajasthan Royals, further strengthening Sri Lanka’s support staff.
Having failed to progress to the knockout rounds in each of the last three T20 World Cups since their 2014 triumph, Sri Lanka views Malinga’s inclusion as part of a broader strategy to restore the side’s competitiveness on the global stage.
Sri Lanka’s Schedule For T20 World Cup 2026
- Sri Lanka vs Ireland, Group B match on February 8 at Colombo
- Sri Lanka vs Oman, Group B match on February 12 at Pallekele
- Sri Lanka vs Australia, Group B match on February 16 at Pallekele
- Sri Lanka vs Zimbabwe, Group B match on February 19 at Colombo
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