Sri Lanka Cricket Board has named Vikram Rathour as their batting coach in readiness for the upcoming T20 World Cup starting on February 7. Rathour, who previously served as India’s batting coach from 2019 to 2024, oversaw the team’s success in ICC tournaments, including their victory in the 2024 T20 World Cup. Following his stint with the Indian team, Rathour took on roles with Rajasthan Royals as a batting and assistant coach.
“He has been appointed on a consultancy basis, focusing primarily on the team’s preparation for the ICC Men’s T20I World Cup 2026,” Sri Lanka Cricket stated. A former Indian player with experience in Tests and One-Day Internationals, Rathour is set to commence his duties on January 18 and will be with the team until March 10.
As Sri Lanka gears up for the T20 World Cup, they are currently engaged in a three-match series against Pakistan. The team aims to leverage Rathour’s expertise as they gear up to co-host the forthcoming global event.
In anticipation of the prestigious tournament, Sri Lanka has also enlisted the services of legendary fast bowler Lasith Malinga as a fast-bowling consultant for a 40-day period, effective from December 15 to January 25. Malinga, a former player who has previously provided informal guidance to top bowlers, will support the coaching staff led by Sanath Jayasuriya.
Drawn in Group B alongside Australia, Oman, Ireland, and Zimbabwe, the 2014 T20 World Cup champions are scheduled to kick off their campaign against Ireland on February 8 at the R Premadasa International Stadium in Colombo.
