SL extend Rumesh Ratnayake’s tenure for World Cup

Wednesday, 18 February 2015 00:35 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

ESPNCricinfo: Former fast bowler Rumesh Ratnayake’s tenure as coaching consultant has been extended until Sri Lanka’s last match in the World Cup. Ratnayake began his te

mporary stint with the side on 4 February, and was not originally scheduled to work beyond 20 February. The extension is partly a response to Sri Lanka’s losses in both warm-up matches, and the opening game against New Zealand. His expertise is expected to be particularly relevant to the attack, which has been especially vulnerable during Sri Lanka’s time in New Zealand. The side’s two new-ball bowlers collected combined figures of 1 for 162 from 18 overs in the opening World Cup match against New Zealand, each traveling at more than eight an over. The bowlers have, in general, struggled to take wickets. Fast bowling coach Chaminda Vaas remains with the side. Ratnayake has previously held coaching positions with the Sri Lanka side, most recently taking over as interim head coach in 2011, following Trevor Bayliss’ departure after the last World Cup. He has also been a development officer for the Asian Cricket Council in the past. Sri Lanka’s next match will be against Afghanistan, on Sunday.