New Delhi: Sri Lanka’s T20I skipper Wanindu Hasaranga stepped down on Thuraday, a couple of weeks before their three-game home series against India.
Under Hasaranga, Sri Lanka exited the T20 World Cup from the group stage winning only one match follwing which head coach Chris Silverwood and consultant batting coach Mahela Jayawardene left their roles.
“Sri Lanka Cricket wishes to inform the public that National Men’s 20I Captain Wanindu Hasaranga has decided to resign from the captaincy,” a statement from Sri Lanka Cricket said.
“Hasaranga said it is in the best interest of Sri Lanka Cricket that he decided to relinquish the captaincy duties and remain in the side as a player.”
India are scheduled to tour Sri Lanka for a limited-overs series, starting with three T20Is on July 26, 27 and 29 in Pallekele, followed by three ODIs in Colombo.
Former opener and selector Sanath Jayasuriya has been appointed to coach the team on an interim basis.
“Sri Lanka Cricket, while accepting his resignation, wishes to state that Hasaranga will remain an important player for us in our international cricketing plans,” the SLC added.
“Sri Lanka will always have my utmost best efforts as a player, and I will support and stand by my team and leadership as always,” Hasaranga said in a statement.
India, meanwhile, will have a new look with the T20I retirement of skipper Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and Ravindra Jadeja.
The T20 World Cuo winning team will be coached by Gautam Gambhir, who takes over from the departed Rahul Dravid.
The BCCI is yet to name the captain of the T20I team with reports suggesting vice captain Hardik Pandya could be promoted to the job.
Under Hasaranga, Sri Lanka exited the T20 World Cup from the group stage Sports Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
