Pakistan legend Wasim Akram has been roped in as the mentor of Sri Lanka’s bowling attack for their upcoming tour of South Africa in December.
The former Pakistan captain conducted a day long coaching clinic in Colombo in what was the first of a series of programmes involving foreign experts, said the board.
“We are honoured that Mr. Akram has accepted our invitation to be a part of this initiative.”
“1Team1Nation theme is beautiful … gives me goosebumps” #KingofSwing #Akram #Mentorship pic.twitter.com/ZdwWvOLVwM
— Sri Lanka Cricket (@OfficialSLC) December 1, 2016
Under the safe hands of left-arm seamer, the board’s cricket chief Thilanga Sumathipala believes the upcoming 2019 World Cup in England is well within their reach if they’ve the right team balance. In 1996, Sri Lanka became the first home side to win the World Cup as they beat Australia by six wickets in the final. In 2007 & 2011 editions, the side reached the finals but were knocked down by Australia and India respectively.
Sri Lanka are set to tour South Africa for three Tests, three T20 matches and five ODIs, starting December 26. The last time these two teams faced off each other in South Africa, the Proteas came out victorious 3-2 in the ODIs and also won the Tests 2-1.