New Sri Lankan coach Chandika Hathurusingha bans music in training sessions

Sri Lankan cricket is dwindling through of a tough phase, and the results speak for itself. From failed captaincy to poor match tactics, the Islanders have failed to capitalize on any opportunity on their tours. Only recently they were left decimated across all the formats in their tour to India. Thus, in a bid to put an end to all this distress, the Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC), earlier this month announced Chandika Hathurusingha as the new Head Coach of the national team.

With the 1996 World Cup winners coming to the end of their worst year in international cricket, Hathurusingha said he would impose strict discipline to make sure they are ready for the 2019 World Cup. And the 49-year-old coach meant business.

Set to select players

The former Bangladesh coach pledged to get tough with the underperforming national team and recently he admonished players for listening to music in training. He has also demanded full authority over team selection. The chief coach is not an automatic member of the selectors’ panel but Hathurusingha wants this changed, even if a new sports law needs to be drawn up.

Speaking about his coaching methodology, Hathurusingha said as per quotes on Indian Express, “If they are interested in music they will have to go home.”

He also added, “I need full control and responsibility to pick the playing eleven. According to the sports law, the coach can’t get involved in selections. They are considering my request to be a selector while being the coach.”

Hathurusingha, to bring in sports psychologist Phil Jauncey

Hathurusingha, who is largely considered as one of the best coaches in the world has re-joined Sri Lanka after previous stints as the head coach of the Sri Lanka A team (2006-2009). Known for his innovative and dynamic coaching techniques, he has been acquainted as a Shadow Coach with Sri Lanka team, during Kumar Sangakkara’s tenure as the captain (2009-10).

The veteran all-rounder has also been in charge of the New South Wales team in Australia and is keen on bringing in sports psychologist Phil Jauncey who worked with him in New South Wales and Bangladesh.

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