ECB in talks with Sri Lankan legend over coaching role
England’s batsmen could soon be learning from one of the biggest names in recent history, as Mahela Jayewardene began talks with the national side over a role as a short-term batting consultant.
The Sri Lankan legend hit over 25,000 runs in his glittering international career before retiring this year.
He has reportedly been offered a role with the England setup ahead of their matchups with Pakistan in the United Arab Emirates later this year, where he will lend advice alongside regular batting coach Mark Ramprakash.
England will play three Tests against the South Asian giants in October, alongside series’ in both limited overs formats.
“We have had some initial conversations with Mahela Jayawardene around a possible short-term consultancy role at the start of the UAE tour – given his familiarity with conditions,” an ECB spokesman said.
“Nothing has been agreed at this stage.”
England coaches, Trevor Bayliss and Paul Farbrace, have both worked with Jayawardene in the past during their stint with the Sri Lankan national side.
Reports suggest that Farbrace first made contact with the former Lions captain in July this year.
