Mahela Jayawardene becomes Sri Lanka's "consultant trainer"

Mahela Jayawardene has been appointed "Advisory Coach" for the Sri Lankan national teams. Effective January 1, 2022, Jayawardene will be appointed for one year and carried out by the Executive Committee of Sri Lanka Cricket in consultation with the Technical Advisory Committee.

In his new role, Jayawardene will "be responsible for the entire cricket element of the national teams and provide invaluable strategic support to the players and management teams at the High-Performance Center," according to the SLC.

Jayawardene will continue to work with Sri Lanka's U19 cricket team to keep an eye on next year's World Cup.

"This is an exciting opportunity to work with the national players and coaches from our various development teams, including the U19 and A teams, to live up to the tremendous cricket talent and potential in Sri Lanka," said Mahela. "I have a great passion for Sri Lankan cricket and believe that with a coordinated and focused team effort, a holistic approach across all age groups, we can continue to achieve constant success in the future.

"My main task will be to support our team of national coaches and supervisors in the coming year with their preparation and strategic considerations."

Ashley De Silva, CEO of Sri Lanka Cricket, said: '' We are very excited to see Mahela join the national team for an expanded role, especially given that Sri Lanka has a strong international calendar in 2022. Mahela's contributions during the first round of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup were invaluable to the overall performance of our team in the completed event. "

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Basically, after Mickey Arthur's departure, Jayawardene is the first time a national men's team has joined a team that currently has no coaching staff. It is believed that the SLC technical advisory committee, headed by Aravinda de Silva, is likely to not only appoint new coaches but also make changes to the coaching structure itself. The men's team's next international match won't take place until February 11, when they face T20Is in Australia.

Jayawardene has to juggle that commitment, however, with two other high profile coaching appearances - that of the Mumbai Indians and the head coach of Southern Brave in the IPL and Hundred competitions.

One of Sri Lanka's greatest thugs, Jayawardene is also considered one of the best captains Sri Lanka has ever had and has been known for his tactical acumen for decades.