Julian Wood: Sri Lanka’s new batting coach

Sri Lanka’s cricket board announced the expansion of its coaching team with the induction of Julian Wood, known for his power-hitting programme, and spin specialist Rene Ferdinands.

Wood, who had worked with the national team briefly in July, will begin a one-year stint this month, Sri Lanka Cricket said in a statement.

“Wood conducted a special one-week training programme with Sri Lanka’s national squads, assisting them in preparation for upcoming international assignments, including the ongoing ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup,” the statement said.

It stated that Ferdinand began working with the national team last week.

“During his two-year tenure with Sri Lanka Cricket, he will lead spin bowling training, match preparation, performance analysis, and player development,” the statement added.

Sri Lanka’s former skipper Sanath Jayasuriya continues as head coach, a position he has held since October last year.

Jayasuriya, widely regarded as one of the greatest one-day international batsmen, played a pivotal role in Sri Lanka’s 1996 World Cup victory.