R Sridhar named Sri Lanka Fielding Coach until end of T20 World Cup

India’s R. Sridhar has been appointed as the Fielding Coach of the national team until the completion of the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) announced. 

In his new assignment, Sridhar will collaborate closely with Sri Lanka’s players to enhance overall fielding standards. He will be involved with the team during upcoming international tours to Pakistan and England, as well as in the build-up to the 2026 T20 World Cup.

Reacting to his appointment, Sridhar praised Sri Lanka’s cricketing legacy, saying the players have long been known for their instinctive flair, resilience and team spirit.

“My aim is not to impose a rigid system, but to create an environment where athleticism, awareness and pride in fielding can develop organically,” he said.

Sridhar’s return to Sri Lanka Cricket comes after his involvement earlier this year, when he conducted a 10-day specialised fielding camp at the National High Performance Centre in May. The programme began with the national men’s team and later extended to other squads, focusing on skill-based drills, simulated match situations and game-specific fielding scenarios.

During that stint, he worked closely with national, high-performance and club-level coaches, helping integrate modern fielding methods with Sri Lanka’s traditional strengths.

“Fielding improves when players feel connected — to the ball, to each other and to the moment. Sri Lanka’s natural assets such as quick hands, sharp reflexes and fearless intent can be elevated further through realistic, match-like learning environments,” Sridhar added.

In addition to his work with India and Sri Lanka, Sridhar was also appointed assistant coach of the Afghanistan men’s team last year for their one-off Test against New Zealand in Noida and a three-match ODI series against South Africa in September.

His tenure will run from December 11, 2025, to March 10, 2026, SLC stated.

--Agencies