Gary Kirsten Takes the Helm as Head Coach of Sri Lanka's Men's Cricket Team
Synopsis
In a significant move, Sri Lanka Cricket has appointed Gary Kirsten as the new head coach of the men's cricket team, effective April 15, aiming to enhance their performance in upcoming international tournaments.
Key Takeaways
Gary Kirsten appointed as head coach of Sri Lanka men's cricket team.
Tenure starts on April 15, 2023.
Kirsten has a successful coaching history, including leading India to a World Cup win.
Contract lasts until April 14, 2028.
Focus on preparing for the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2027.
Colombo, March 9 (NationPress) - On Monday, Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) officially declared that former South African cricketer Gary Kirsten has been appointed as the head coach of the national men's cricket team, with his tenure commencing on April 15.
Kirsten, who boasts an impressive international career representing South Africa, previously held the position of head coach for the Indian men's national team from 2008 to 2011 and for the South African men's national team from 2011 to 2013.
SLC stated, "This new coaching appointment is part of our strategy to enhance the framework of the National High Performance Center."
Throughout his coaching tenures, Kirsten led both teams to remarkable achievements in international cricket. Notably, he guided India to victory in the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup in 2011 and helped South Africa attain the number one ranking across all formats in 2013.
His most recent role was as a consultant for Cricket Namibia during the recently concluded ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026.
During his playing days, spanning from 1993 to 2004, Kirsten accumulated a total of 14,087 runs in both Test and One Day International (ODI) formats, securing 21 Test centuries and 13 ODI centuries.
Kirsten's contract with Sri Lanka Cricket will extend for two years, concluding on April 14, 2028.
He will primarily focus on preparing the Sri Lanka National Men’s Team for the upcoming ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2027, set to take place in South Africa, Namibia, and Zimbabwe.
Point of View
Kirsten is well-positioned to guide the team in their quest for success in the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2027.
NationPress
2 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Gary Kirsten's role with Sri Lanka Cricket?
Gary Kirsten has been appointed as the head coach of the Sri Lanka men's cricket team.
When does Gary Kirsten's tenure start?
His tenure begins on April 15.
What are Kirsten's previous coaching achievements?
He led India to win the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup in 2011 and took South Africa to the number one ranking in 2013.
How long is Kirsten's contract with Sri Lanka Cricket?
Kirsten's contract is for two years, ending on April 14, 2028.
What major tournament will Kirsten prepare the team for?
He will prepare the Sri Lanka National Men’s Team for the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2027.
