Kumar Sangakkara has expressed that coaching England in limited-overs cricket would be an “exciting prospect,” but emphasized that he has yet to receive a formal approach for the position.
The England and Wales Cricket Board is currently seeking a new head coach for their white-ball team after parting ways with Matthew Mott on Tuesday. Mott, an Australian, oversaw two disappointing title defenses at both the 2023 50-over World Cup and June’s T20 World Cup.
Former England batsman Marcus Trescothick has been appointed as caretaker coach for September’s one-day international and T20 series against arch-rivals Australia, while Rob Key, the managing director of England men’s cricket, searches for Mott’s permanent replacement.
Sri Lankan cricket legend Sangakkara has been linked with the role, partly due to his experience in the Indian Premier League, where he worked alongside England’s white-ball captain, Jos Buttler, at the Rajasthan Royals.
However, the 46-year-old former Sri Lanka wicketkeeper-batsman remained noncommittal on Friday.
“Well, I know my name has been mentioned for some reason, but there has not been any approach as such,” Sangakkara, who is part of Sky Sports’ commentary team for The Hundred, told Britain’s PA news agency.
“I think the England white-ball job is an exciting prospect for anyone, but there are so many good candidates out there. I think Matthew Mott has done a really good job.
“It’s great that Jos Buttler is staying in that leadership role as the team progresses because it’s a pivotal time for the side — from what it is now and what it aims to become in the future.
“I believe the decision-making within the England camp has been spot on. I really admire the leadership Rob Key has provided… He has been a smart, practical, and forward-thinking leader in setting the vision for England cricket.”
Sangakkara, who was the first non-British president of the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC), added: “I am very happy at the moment. The Rajasthan Royals experience has been very fulfilling, and it has been a role I have thoroughly enjoyed over the past four years.”
Meanwhile, Sangakkara expressed his delight that his compatriot Chamari Athapaththu is playing for the Oval Invincibles in The Hundred, following her success in leading the Sri Lanka women’s team to Asia Cup glory last week.
“I am excited that Ben Stokes is playing, but I am even more excited that Chamari Athapaththu is getting a game because she has been an inspiring leader and captain for global cricket, particularly for Sri Lanka,” Sangakkara said.
