Who Is the New National Batting Coach for SLC?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Julian Wood appointed as batting coach.
- Rene Ferdinands named National Spin Bowling Coach.
- Wood's innovative techniques focus on enhancing hitting power.
- Ferdinands brings a scientific approach to spin bowling.
- Upcoming matches include ODIs and a tri-series in Pakistan.
Colombo, Oct 4 (NationPress) Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has officially named Julian Wood as the national men's cricket team's new batting coach for a one-year term starting October 1, 2025. This decision follows Sri Lanka's unsuccessful bid to reach the Super Fours stage of the recently concluded 2025 Asia Cup, where India emerged as the champions.
Wood is renowned for developing the innovative “Power Hitting Program,” which integrates traditional cricket techniques with modern training methods and biomechanics to amplify a player's hitting capacity. He brings a wealth of experience, having collaborated with the ECB, Gloucestershire CCC, Hampshire CCC, Middlesex CCC, and the IPL franchise Punjab Kings.
Earlier this year, he conducted a one-week training camp with Sri Lanka’s national squads, assisting them in preparing for forthcoming international competitions, including the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup.
Additionally, Rene Ferdinands has been appointed as the National Spin Bowling Coach, effective from September 30, 2025.
Ferdinands, who holds a PhD in biomechanics from the University of Waikato, has significant experience in applying science to enhance cricket performance. His past roles include working with the National Cricket Academy of India (NCA), where he developed biomechanics-driven coaching programs for elite players and coaches.
With expertise in wrist and finger spin, Ferdinands has also served as a biomechanics consultant for New Zealand Cricket, performing performance evaluations and injury-risk assessments for some of the top bowlers in the squad.
In addition to his international responsibilities, Ferdinands has coached various clubs, including Eastern Suburbs Cricket Club, UTS North Sydney Cricket Club, Hawkesbury Cricket Club, and Sydney University Cricket Club. His two-year tenure with Sri Lanka Cricket will involve spearheading spin bowling training, match preparation, performance analysis, and player development.
The Sri Lankan men’s team is scheduled to tour Pakistan for three ODIs starting on November 11, followed by a tri-series in the country featuring Afghanistan, commencing on November 17.
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