New Delhi: Sanath Jayasuriya is likely to step down as Sri Lanka’s head coach after the culmination of the ongoing T20 World Cup 2026. This development comes after the Sri Lanka team’s campaign at the ICC event ended at the Super 8 stage.
As per multiple reports, Jayasuriya will call it quits after the the team’s last match Super 8 match against Pakistan on Saturday, which is an inconsequential contest for the island nation but a crucial one for the Men in Green. Although his full-time contract runs until March 31, Jayasuriya had made it clear back in January that he would not continue beyond the home World Cup, regardless of how the campaign unfolded.
🚨 BREAKING 🚨
Sri Lanka’s head coach Sanath Jayasuriya is expected to step down following the team’s T20 World Cup 2026 exit. 🇱🇰🏏
Today’s clash against Pakistan might be his final match at the helm. 🤝
(Source: Asian Mirror) pic.twitter.com/s88YmFd4g9
— Ratan. (@xcompounder16) February 28, 2026
Meanwhile, Sri Lanka’s T20 World Cup campaign ended when they failed to perform in the crucial clashes against England and New Zealand. Injuries to Wanindu Hasaranga and Matheesha Pathirana added to Sri Lanka’s misery, as the co-hosts were eliminated despite a good performance all through the ICC competition.
How Jayasuriya’s coaching career unfolded
Jayasuriya, who was one of the best batters in the side during his time, began his coaching tenure in July 2024 on an interim basis. With the former left-hander at the helm, Sri Lanka secured their first bilateral ODI series win over India in 27 years, claiming a 2-0 triumph. Soon after the memorable victory, the island nation registered a landmark Test victory over England at The Oval, their first in England in 10 years.
The results helped him secure a full-time appointment on October 1, 2024, on a two-year deal. The momentum continued with a 2-0 Test series sweep over New Zealand, briefly lifting Sri Lanka to third in the World Test Championship (WTC) standings.