Sri Lanka Cricket has appointed former India fielding coach R Sridhar in the same role with the national men’s team until the conclusion of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, scheduled for February–March next year.
Sridhar, who served as India’s fielding coach from 2014 to 2021, had earlier conducted a 10-day specialised fielding camp at Sri Lanka’s National High Performance Centre this year. Confirming the appointment, Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) said the experienced coach will focus on raising the team’s fielding standards during a crucial phase leading up to the global event.
“A BCCI Level 3 qualified coach, R Sridhar was the fielding coach of the India national men’s team from 2014 to 2021, covering over 300 international matches,” SLC said in an official release.
The former India coach will work closely with the Sri Lankan players during upcoming tours against Pakistan and England before shifting focus to preparations for the T20 World Cup, which Sri Lanka will co-host alongside India. His tenure runs from December 11 to March 10, 2026, covering all key international assignments in this period.
Speaking about his approach, Sridhar said he does not believe in enforcing rigid systems. “My role is not to impose a system, but to nurture an environment where athleticism, awareness, and pride in the field can grow naturally,” he said. “Fielding thrives when players feel connected to the ball, to each other, and to the moment.”
He also highlighted Sri Lanka’s traditional strengths in the field. “Quick hands, sharp reflexes and fearless intent have always been part of Sri Lanka’s identity. These can be further enhanced by creating realistic, game-like learning environments,” Sridhar added.
(By PTI Inputs)
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