Fancy an Englishman plotting tactics to derail the English team. We can see such sight as former middle-order batter Ian Bell has joined the Sri Lankan team as ‘batting coach’. This development has come just before the upcoming England vs Sri Lanka three-match Test series.
SLC rope in Ian Bell
“We appointed Ian to bring in a person with local knowledge to help the players with key insights on the conditions there. Ian has a lot of experience playing in England, and we believe his inputs will help our team in this crucial tour,” said Mr. Ashley De Silva, CEO, Sri Lanka Cricket.
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Bell, renowned for his elegant stroke play and consistency, represented England from 2004 to 2015. His impressive Test career saw him amass 7727 runs at an average of 42.69, including 22 centuries and 46 half-centuries. Bell will commence his role on August 16 and will remain with the team until the conclusion of the three-match Test series.
The series holds significance for both teams in the context of the ICC World Test Championship. Currently occupying the fourth and sixth positions respectively, Sri Lanka and England will be eager to secure crucial points to improve their standings.
With Bell’s guidance, Sri Lanka will aim to overcome the challenges posed by English conditions and put up a strong performance against their former captain.
England vs Sri Lanka Test series schedule
Test | Venue (Date) |
---|---|
1st | Manchester (August 21-25) |
2nd | Lord’s (August 29- September 2) |
3rd | Oval, London (September 6- 10) |