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New Delhi: Fast bowling legend Lasith Malinga has been roped in as a consultant fast bowling coach by Sri Lanka ahead of the T20 World Cup 2026.
Sri Lanka Cricket announced the appointment via a statement and revealed that Malinga's appointment is on a short-term basis, from 15th December to 25th January 2026.
"Sri Lanka Cricket aims to leverage Malinga's vast international experience and renowned expertise in death bowling, particularly in the shortest format of the game to strengthen Sri Lanka's preparations for the upcoming World Cup," SLC said in a statement.
Malinga is a former T20 World Cup winner, having led the team to the title-clinching win against India back in 2014.
The legendary pacer, who bagged 107 wickets from 84 T20I appearances, will bring experience and expertise to the Sri Lanka set-up. Known for his death bowling ability, the 42-year-old has donned several hats, including mentor and coach in the T20 franchise leagues, since he retired from all forms of cricket in 2021.
Widely regarded as one of the best bowlers of his generation in white-ball cricket, Malinga bagged over 500 wickets in his international career. In franchise cricket, he played a key role in the Mumbai Indians' countless victories in the Indian Premier League.
He was with the Sri Lanka squad as a bowling strategy coach in 2022.
Sri Lanka will aim to use Malinga's experience and expertise in a marquee event that they will co-host alongside India. The T20 cricket carnival begins on February 7.
The Islanders are pooled in Group B alongside Australia, Ireland, Zimbabwe, and Oman and take on Ireland in their opening fixture on February 8 at the R Premadasa International Stadium in Colombo.
Sri Lanka Cricket had recently announced a preliminary squad for the T20 World Cup.
In the run-up to the T20 World Cup, Sri Lanka will play a home series against Pakistan and England.
