Former India fielding coach R Sridhar joins Sri Lanka setup
What's the story
Former Indian cricket team's fielding coach R. Sridhar has been appointed the fielding coach of Sri Lanka. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Level 3 qualified coach will hold the position till the end of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup, scheduled to be held in February-March next year. He will focus on improving SL's fielding standards ahead of the upcoming international tours.
Coaching credentials
Coaching experience and previous role
Sridhar served as the fielding coach for Team India (men) between 2014 and 2021, during which he was part of several momentous matches. He also had a brief stint as a consultant coach with Afghanistan's team. Sridhar will be part of the Lankan coaching setup from December 11 to March 10, 2026. This period includes tours against Pakistan and England, along with the T20 World Cup run.
Coaching philosophy
Vision for Sri Lankan cricket
Earlier this year, Sridhar was introduced to the Sri Lankan setup by conducting a 10-day specialized fielding program at the National High Performance Centre. He said, "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 also emphasized that "fielding thrives when players feel connected to the ball, to each other, and to the moment."
Information
Enhancing SL's strengths
Sridhar further added that "Sri Lanka's traditional strengths - quick hands, sharp reflexes, and fearless intent, can be further enhanced by creating realistic, game-like learning environments." This strategic approach is expected to prepare the Sri Lankan team well for their T20 World Cup campaign.