Vikram Rathour Takes Charge as Sri Lanka's Batting Coach Ahead of T20 World Cup

Sri Lanka Cricket Welcomes Vikram Rathour

Colombo: The Sri Lanka Cricket Board has announced the appointment of Vikram Rathour as their new batting coach as they intensify their preparations for the upcoming T20 World Cup, set to commence on February 7.

Rathour, who previously held the position of batting coach for India from 2019 to 2024, contributed to the team's success in various ICC tournaments, including their T20 World Cup victory in 2024. Following his departure from the Indian team, he took on a role with the Rajasthan Royals as both batting and assistant coach.

His consultancy role focuses primarily on gearing up for the ICC Men’s T20I World Cup 2026. A former Indian international cricketer with experience in Tests and ODIs, Rathour will officially start his duties on January 18 and will be with the team until March 10, as stated by Sri Lanka Cricket.

Currently, Sri Lanka is engaged in a three-match series against Pakistan, aiming to leverage Rathour's expertise as they prepare to co-host the global tournament.

In addition to Rathour's appointment, Sri Lanka has also brought in legendary fast bowler Lasith Malinga as a fast-bowling consultant for a 40-day period, starting from December 15 to January 25.

Malinga has previously served in this capacity on two occasions and has provided informal coaching to leading bowlers over the years. For the last two years, he has been advising the coaching staff led by Sanath Jayasuriya.

Sri Lanka is placed in Group B alongside Australia, Oman, Ireland, and Zimbabwe. The 2014 champions will kick off their campaign against Ireland on February 8 at the R Premadasa International Stadium in Colombo.