Kirsten will take over the head coaching position from Sanath Jayasuriya who left his post after Sri Lanka's unsuccessful performance in the home T20 World Cup. The new coach will begin his role on April 15, 2025.

Sri Lanka Cricket confirmed that Kirsten will work with the team in all formats during his time with the national side.

Focus on ODI World Cup 2027

Kirsten's main responsibility will involve preparing Sri Lanka for the upcoming 2027 ODI World Cup. The tournament will be hosted by South Africa, Namibia and Zimbabwe.

The new coach will establish the team for that event according to Sri Lanka Cricket.

Sri Lanka Cricket statement:

"Among Kirsten's primary responsibilities will be guiding the Sri Lanka National Men's Team in its preparation and campaign for the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup 2027, which will be held in South Africa, Namibia and Zimbabwe."

The Board added:

"The appointment of the new head coach is part of Sri Lanka Cricket's efforts to revamp the structure of the National High Performance Center."

Board Further stats:

"His appointment with Sri Lanka Cricket will be for a two-year term ending on April 14, 2028."

Kirsten’s recent coaching journey

Kirsten worked with the Namibia national team as a consultant during the T20 World Cup before he joined Sri Lanka. However, his recent time with the Pakistan team did not go well.

He began his role as Pakistan's white-ball head coach in April 2024 but he left the position after six months. He left the team in October after experiencing challenges during his tenure.

Pakistan suffered major losses during the 2024 T20 World Cup when they faced both the USA and India.

Problems during Pakistan stint

Kirsten told people about the issues which affected the Pakistani team after the tournament ended. He stated that the players lacked both fitness and unity.

There were reports indicating that the Pakistan Cricket Board had a conflict with the coaching staff. The board later took away selection authority from Kirsten and Jason Gillespie, who was the red-ball coach, and placed it in the hands of a newly formed committee.

Kirsten made the decision to resign from his position because he was dissatisfied with the current circumstances.

A respected coach in world cricket

Gary Kirsten has maintained his position as one of the most respected coaches in international cricket after he faced that difficult period.

He served as India's head coach from 2008 to 2011 and he played a crucial role in their victory at the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup 2011. From 2011 to 2013 he continued his coaching career with South Africa. South Africa reached the top position in all formats of cricket during 2013 under his leadership.

Sri Lanka wants Kirsten's experience to help the team build a powerful future squad.