SLC makes three changes in support staff for Test squad

By Bipin Dani

Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has made three changes in the support staff system for the upcoming two Tests against Australia, it is learnt. 

According to highly placed sources in Colombo, Dharshana Gamage has replaced Lasith Malinga as fast bowling coach. “Malinga was hired for the white ball matches (T-20Is and ODIs) only, and now the former right-arm fast bowler has taken over the charge of fast bowling.”

Dharshana Gamage has experience of playing only three international matches (ODIs) but will also be assisted by the head coach, Chris Silverwood, who played six Tests and seven ODIs. Gamage had already been in Galle for the last few days giving training to the few Test squad members, including captain Dimuth Karunratne and Angelo Mathews. The other notable change is Manoj Abeywickrama as fielding coach for two Tests. “Anton Roux, who was a fielding coach in white-ball matches, has stayed back in Colombo,” the source confirmed.

Shirantha Niroshan is the computer analyst replacing Prad Navrathnam. 

Both teams have already reached Galle. The home team had its training session yesterday morning. The first Test, beginning on June 29, will be dedicated to Shane Warne.