Former Sri Lankan captain and chief selector Sanath Jayasuriya has revealed that he will be the new head coach of the national team following Chris Silverwood's resignation after the T20 World Cup 2024 co-hosted by the USA and West Indies.

Jayasuriya confirmed his new role after Sri Lanka Cricket approached him to lead the squad for the upcoming white-ball series against India and the tour to England in August.

"I have been asked to take over coaching, and I am delighted to accept," Jayasuriya said.

A veteran of 586 international appearances across formats, Jayasuriya brings a wealth of experience as a former Test and ODI captain and national selector. His tenure is set to commence after the conclusion of the ongoing T20 Lanka Premier League on July 21.

Known for his aggressive batting and effective spin bowling, Jayasuriya retired from international cricket in 2011, leaving a lasting legacy with 42 centuries and 440 wickets to his name.

The departure of Chris Silverwood, 49, was attributed to personal reasons, according to Sri Lanka Cricket, which acknowledged his significant contributions since taking charge in April 2022. Under Silverwood's guidance, Sri Lanka claimed the T20 Asia Cup title in his inaugural year and reached the 50-over Asia Cup final in 2023.

However, their recent performance at the T20 World Cup saw them winning only one match against the Netherlands, placing third in their group behind South Africa and Bangladesh.

Mahela Jayawardena, the former captain, also recently stepped down from his role as a consultant coach, signaling a shift in the team's coaching staff amidst upcoming challenges.

It is worth noting that Sri Lanka will host the 2024 T20 World Cup champions India for a limited-overs home series from July to August, comprising three T20Is and three ODIs.