Kumar Sangakkara to be named England's white-ball head coach: Report
Former Sri Lanka captain, Kumar Sangakkara, is reportedly on the verge of becoming the new head coach for England's white-ball teams. This development follows Matthew Mott's resignation after two years in the role, a tenure marked by disappointing performances at both the ODI World Cup 2023 and the T20 World Cup 2024. Currently coaching the Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Rajasthan Royals, Sangakkara has emerged as a frontrunner to replace Mott.
England cricket seeks fresh leadership
Rob Key, England's Director of Cricket, is reportedly seeking fresh leadership for the team in light of recent setbacks. This sentiment is echoed by England's white-ball skipper Jos Buttler, who expressed a preference for a coach with extensive playing experience. While there has been no official confirmation from Sangakkara or the England cricket team, media reports suggest an announcement is imminent.
Sangakkara's appointment follows Mott's successful tenure
Matthew Mott, who began his leadership in May 2022, led England to significant victories including a T20 World Cup title in Australia and white-ball series wins against Australia, Bangladesh, Ireland, Netherlands, New Zealand and Pakistan. Despite these successes, the team had a lackluster start to both the ODI World Cup 2023 and T20 World Cup 2024 campaigns. If reports are accurate about Sangakkara's new role with England, he will be leaving his current position with Rajasthan Royals.
A look at his illustrious career
Sangakkara is an owner of over 10,000 runs in both ODI and Test cricket, having slammed a total of 63 tons. He aggregated 12,400 runs from 134 Tests at an astronomical average of 57.40. His tally of 14,234 runs from 404 ODIs at 41.98 is still the second-most for any batter. Sangakkara has also racked up 1,382 runs in T20Is at 31.40.
