Overview
- Sri Lanka Cricket confirmed Kirsten’s appointment through April 14, 2028, tasking him with leading preparations for the 2027 World Cup in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia.
- He succeeds Sanath Jayasuriya, who stepped down after the team’s disappointing home T20 World Cup campaign that ended in the Super Eights.
- The hire is part of SLC’s plan to revamp its National High Performance Centre to strengthen long‑term player development and the senior setup.
- Kirsten brings elite credentials, having coached India to the 2011 World Cup and guiding South Africa to No. 1 across formats, with a recent consultancy stint for Namibia at the 2026 T20 World Cup.
- Separately, SLC has indefinitely postponed a six‑match white‑ball series against Afghanistan in the UAE, citing flight disruptions and regional fighting affecting travel.