Julian Wood and Charith Asalanka (Source:@PunjabKingsIPL,x.com)
In a significant development, Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has announced Julian Wood as the new batting coach and Rene Ferdinands as the new spin-bowling coach for the men's national team.
Julian Wood has replaced Thilina Kandamby, who had served in the role since December 2023. On the other hand, Ferdinands has replaced Piyal Wijetunge, who had been with the team since 2006.
Julian Wood replaces Thilina Kandamby
Julian Wood has signed a one-year contract with Sri Lanka. Known for changing the white-ball batting with his power-hitting methods, Wood has previously worked with the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB). He has also consulted Punjab Kings in the IPL, as well as Hampshire, Gloucestershire, and Middlesex.
"He [Wood] brings a wealth of experience, having previously worked with the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), Gloucestershire CCC, Hampshire CCC, Middlesex CCC, and IPL franchise Punjab Kings, among others," stated an SLC media release.
Rene Ferdinands has been brought in on a two-year contract to oversee Sri Lanka’s spin-bowling development. He has previously worked as a biomechanics consultant for New Zealand Cricket.
And has also delivered performance evaluations and injury prevention programmes at the BCCI’s National Cricket Academy.
"Holding a PhD in biomechanics from the University of Waikato, Ferdinands brings extensive expertise in applying science to enhance cricket performance," an SLC statement said. He has previously worked at the BCCI's National Cricket Academy, "delivering biomechanics-based coaching programmes for elite players and coaches".
It is vital to note that, according to reports, Sri Lanka has made these notable changes following its loss of the T20I series against Bangladesh at home in July, as well as after a somewhat inconsistent performance in the 2025 Asia Cup campaign.
The Charith Asalanka-led team suffered a dramatic collapse in the Super 4s after a perfect start in the group stage.
