Vikram Rathour (Source:@RexClementine,x.com)
In a significant development, Sri Lanka Cricket has taken a major step in strengthening its preparations for the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup 2026 by appointing former India batting coach Vikram Rathour as its new batting coach.
The move comes as Sri Lanka gears up to co-host the marquee tournament and will aim to win the T20 World Cup for the second time, having last lifted the trophy in 2014.
Big Boost for Sri Lanka as Vikram Rathour joins as support staff
Vikram Rathour brings with him a wealth of experience at the international level. He was the batting coach of the India's cricket team during Rahul Dravid’s tenure as head coach.
Most notably, Rathour was part of the India's support staff that guided the Men in Blue to their T20 World Cup triumph in 2024.
According to reports by Sri Lanka journalist Rex Clementine, Rathour is expected to join the Sri Lankan team by January 15. His arrival comes at a crucial time, as SL have already begun their build-up for the tournament.
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The team recently announced a 18-member squad for a three-match T20I series against Pakistan, starting January 7.
Sri Lanka have also announced the return of former captain Charith Asalanka to the T20 squad ahead of the World Cup. However, he will feature purely as a specialist batter.
Earlier, when Dasun Shanaka was appointed T20I captain for the tri-series in Pakistan, it was confirmed that Asalanka would be relieved of captaincy duties to reduce pressure and allow him to focus on his batting form.
This series is part of their preparation plan to give players valuable match practice before the T20 World Cup 2026.
Sri Lanka, as co-hosts of the T20 World Cup, will begin their campaign against Ireland on February 8. The team will next play against Oman, Australia and Zimbabwe.
Vikram Rathour's coaching journey
Vikram Rathour's coaching journey has been impressive. It important to mention that he was first appointed as India’s batting coach in 2019, and his contract was extended in 2024.
During his tenure, India reached the final of the 2023 ODI World Cup and went on to win the 2024 T20 World Cup.
After leaving the Indian team setup in 2024, Rathour also took up the role of batting coach and assistant coach with Rajasthan Royals for the IPL 2025 season.
Lasith Malinga also included in Sri Lanka's support staff
Apart from Rathour's appointment, Sri Lanka has also welcomed back one of their greatest match-winners, Lasith Malinga, into the support staff. The former Sri Lankan fast bowling legend has been named the fast bowling consultant on a short-term basis.
Sri Lanka Cricket officially announced on December 30 that Malinga will serve in this role for a period of 40 days, effective from December 15.
With legends like Sanath Jayasuriya already serving as head coach, Sri Lanka’s coaching group now has a strong mix of experience and cricketing knowledge.
