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"Fantastic coach": Nissanka on Jayasuriya's influence on SL's growth ahead of T20 World Cup

Akshita Patel

Nissanka rates Jayasuriya hihgly [Source: @IS_Netwrk29/X.com]Nissanka rates Jayasuriya hihgly [Source: @IS_Netwrk29/X.com]

Sri Lanka opener Pathum Nissanka has opened up about the massive impact head coach Sanath Jayasuriya has had on the national team. He said the legendary former captain has given players the freedom to express themselves and the confidence to play fearless cricket.

Jayasuriya took over the role of Lanka’s full-time head coach in October 2024. The team has had their ups and downs, but Nissanka is satisfied with the legend’s coaching style.

Pathum Nissanka thanks coach Sanath Jayasuriya

Speaking to ANI during the ILT20 in Abu Dhabi, where he is representing the Gulf Giants, Pathum Nissanka said Sanath Jayasuriya’s approach has changed the team’s mindset completely. 

According to him, the coach’s message is to play positive cricket, trust your instincts, and don’t be afraid to take risks. 

"He is doing a fantastic job. He is working closely with the whole team and especially with me. He has given me permission to express myself and the freedom to play shots. And he encourages us to be positive no matter what. He is doing a fantastic job as a coach at the moment," Nissanka said.

Additionally, Sri Lanka will co-host the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 with India, and Nissanka is dreaming big. 

He said playing at home gives the team a huge advantage and expressed hope that India and Sri Lanka will meet in the final, recreating the high-stakes clash last seen in the 2011 ODI World Cup final in Mumbai.

"Since we are playing at home, we are hopeful of achieving that (a T20 WC final). The entire team is hoping that we do well and reach the finals," he added.

The opener also opened up on Sri Lanka’s disappointing Asia Cup performance, where they failed to win any Super Four match. Nissanka admitted mistakes were made, especially in batting. 

"We made a lot of mistakes during the tournament, especially in the batting department. We have analysed our mistakes and want to correct them going forward."

Pathum Nissanka has taken ILT20 by storm

27-year-old Pathum Nissanka is currently in terrific form, leading the ILT20 run charts with 204 runs in three innings at a strike rate of 200. 

Already Sri Lanka’s highest run-scorer in T20Is, he is proud but hungry for more. He is also thankful to the Gulf Giants management, including captain Moeen Ali and coach Jonathan Trott, for guiding him.