Gary Kirsten Takes the Helm of Sri Lanka Men’s Cricket Team
Gary Kirsten has been appointed as the new head coach of the Sri Lanka men’s cricket team, effective April 15, 2026. This significant move comes as part of Sri Lanka Cricket’s ongoing efforts to transform its national high-performance centre.
Kirsten, a former international cricketer, has a distinguished coaching career with notable achievements. He served as head coach of the India men’s national team from 2008 to 2011, during which India won the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup in 2011.
Following his tenure with India, Kirsten took the reins of the South Africa men’s national team from 2011 to 2013. Under his guidance, South Africa became the number 1-ranked team in all formats in 2013, showcasing his ability to elevate teams to new heights.
Most recently, Kirsten was associated with the Namibian team as a consultant for the T20 World Cup 2026, further solidifying his reputation in the international cricketing community.
The appointment of Kirsten is expected to bring a wealth of experience and strategic insight to the Sri Lankan team, which has faced challenges in recent years. Observers are keen to see how his leadership will influence the team’s performance on the international stage.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the specific goals and objectives set for Kirsten during his two-year tenure. However, the cricketing world is watching closely as he embarks on this new chapter with the Sri Lanka men’s cricket team.