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Key Points

Former Sri Lanka Test cricketer Kaushal Silva has been named head coach of Hong Kong's men's team. His appointment comes just weeks before the 2025 Asia Cup, where Hong Kong will face tough opponents like Afghanistan and Bangladesh. Silva, known for his gritty batting during his playing days, transitions into his first international coaching role. Cricket Hong Kong officials believe his experience will help elevate the team's performance and grassroots development.

Key Points: Kaushal Silva Appointed Hong Kong Head Coach for Asia Cup

  • Ex-Sri Lanka wicketkeeper-opener Silva brings 39 Tests of experience
  • First international head coach role after retiring in 2019
  • Hong Kong to face Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka in Asia Cup
  • Aims to build on recent Asia Pacific Champions Trophy runner-up finish
2 min read

Kaushal Silva named head coach of Hong Kong ahead of Asia Cup

Former Sri Lanka cricketer Kaushal Silva takes charge of Hong Kong men's team ahead of 2025 Asia Cup, aiming to elevate their performance.

"Kaushal’s dedication to nurturing talent resonates with our vision for Hong Kong cricket. – Burji Shroff, Cricket Hong Kong Chairperson"

New Delhi, July 28

Former Sri Lanka Test cricketer Kaushal Silva has been named the new head coach of the Hong Kong men's cricket team. His appointment comes at a crucial time, with Hong Kong gearing up for the 2025 Asia Cup. They are set to open the tournament against Afghanistan on September 9, followed by group-stage clashes with Bangladesh and Sri Lanka in Group B.

Silva brings a wealth of experience to the role. Between 2011 and 2018, he played 39 Tests for Sri Lanka, earning a reputation as a gritty wicketkeeper-opener. Over his first-class career, he accumulated 13,932 runs in 209 matches, including 41 centuries—three of which came at the international level. Since retiring from playing in 2019, Silva has been involved in coaching across Sri Lanka, England, and Australia. However, this marks his first assignment as the head coach of an international team.

Cricket Hong Kong, China's chairperson Burji Shroff expressed confidence in the appointment, stating, "Kaushal's dedication to nurturing and developing talent resonates with our vision for the future of cricket in Hong Kong. We believe that under his guidance, we can not only elevate our competitive standing but also promote the sport within our community."

Silva said his "focus will be on instilling a strong work ethic and a winning mentality amongst the senior squad and working to identify and nurture fresh talent for continued growth."

Hong Kong’s most recent appearance was at the Asia Pacific Cricket Champions Trophy in Singapore, where they finished runners-up after a loss to Malaysia in the final. With Silva now at the helm, the team hopes to build on that performance and make a mark in the upcoming Asia Cup in the UAE.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

S
Shreya B
Interesting choice but I'm not sure about his coaching experience. Hong Kong should have gone for someone more established. Their group is tough with Bangladesh and Sri Lanka!
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Aman W
As an Indian cricket fan, I love seeing associate nations getting quality coaches. More competition means better cricket overall. Best of luck to Silva and Hong Kong team!
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Nisha Z
Remember watching Silva bat against India in 2017 - solid technique. If he can teach Hong Kong players half of what he knew, they'll improve massively. Exciting times for Asian cricket!
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Varun X
Hong Kong's cricket infrastructure needs work first. No point having a good coach if players don't get proper facilities. Hope Silva can push for better systems there.
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Priyanka N
His focus on grassroots development is spot on! Associate nations need long-term planning, not just quick results. Wishing him success in this new challenge 🙌

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