Sri Lanka batting coach Vikram Rathour has praised Head Coach Sanath Jayasuriya for fostering an open and supportive environment within the national side during the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026.
Speaking at the pre-match press conference, Rathour said working under Jayasuriya has been a positive experience, highlighting the former captain’s openness to new ideas and willingness to give the coaching staff space.
“To Sanath’s credit, he is very open. He has given us a lot of space to work in, which is great when you come into a new environment,” Rathour said.
“He is very receptive to new ideas, which is a great quality to have given the stature he has in the team and in the country.”
Rathour also addressed Sri Lanka’s batting form, dismissing suggestions that the team underwent major changes following the England series.
“As a team you will have good games and not-so-good games. Nothing really has changed. We are still preparing the way we were,” he said.
He stressed that belief within the squad is more important than confidence tied to results.
“Even if Pathum scores two zeroes, he is still a terrific player. Confidence goes up and down with performances, but self-belief is more important,” Rathour said.
On the decision to bring Kusal Janith Perera into the top order in place of Kamil Mishara, Rathour said form had been a factor but maintained confidence in both players.
“He is a quality player,” Rathour said of Mishara. “But there were a few games where sometimes form comes into question. KJP is also a quality player who can play a very impactful knock.”
He added that one failure would not define Perera’s place in the side and indicated that the team is keen to give him more opportunities.
“We’ll be looking to give him more opportunities and we are hoping that he comes good,” Rathour said.
Rathour described Pathum Nissanka’s recent innings as one of the better T20 knocks one would see, while also praising Kusal Mendis and Pavan Ratnayake for their consistency and intent.
Sri Lanka are set to face Zimbabwe in their next Super 8 fixture as they look to continue their momentum in the tournament. (Newswire)
