The country’s cricket governing body, Sri Lanka Cricket, has again included Lasith Malinga as a consultant bowling coach for their national men’s cricket team, further sharpening their edges ahead of the T20 World Cup 2026 set to take place in early February, which they will host alongside another country.
This is a temporary assignment by Sri Lanka Cricket as they look to strengthen their bowling acumen before a major international competition in the shorter formats of the game.
Details of Malinga’s Coaching Appointment
Despite being a limited role of merely 40 days, from December 15 to January 25, it will be considered as part of Lasith Malinga’s continuous role with Sri Lanka’s elite fast bowlers.
Malinga has:
- Previously served multiple times as an official fast bowling consultant
- Worked informally with the best fast bowlers in Sri Lanka over several years
Actively advised the current coaching staff led by Sanath Jayasuriya in the last two years. His return will ensure continuity and stability in Sri Lanka’s preparation for the T20 World Cup in 2026.
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Key Role in Developing Sri Lanka’s Unique Bowling Arsenal
As round-arm pacers Matheesha Pathirana and Nuwan Thushara are named in the initial World Cup squad of Sri Lanka, and are probably to make the cut into the 15-member side, the need for Malinga has become even more acute.
On the basis of the unique round-arm action and yorker skills that Malinga possesses, he is best equipped for the task of tutoring those bowlers in the following ways:
- Death-over execution
- Tactical bowling in pressure situations
- Knowledge of the game in T20 cricket
- Official Statement of Sri Lanka Cricket
Sri Lanka Cricket, in their press release, pointed out the need for their team to have Malinga’s expertise as they want to harness his vast international cricket experience and skill in death bowling to prepare their cricket squad for the coming T20 World Cup in 2026.
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Sri Lanka to Co-Host First Men’s Global Event Since 2012
The upcoming T20 World Cup 2026 will mark Sri Lanka’s first time hosting a men’s ICC global tournament since 2012. Matches will be played across three major venues:
- R. Premadasa Stadium (Khettarama), Colombo
- Sinhalese Sports Club (SSC), Colombo
- Pallekele International Cricket Stadium
The tournament is scheduled to run from February 7 to March 8.
Sri Lanka’s Group and Tournament Outlook
Sri Lanka have been placed in Group B, where they will face:
- Australia
- Ireland
- Oman
- Zimbabwe
With home conditions, crowd support, and Lasith Malinga’s guidance, Sri Lanka will be aiming to make a strong impact in the T20 World Cup 2026.
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