Key Points

Sri Lanka Cricket has made significant coaching changes after their Asia Cup performance. They've brought in Julian Wood as the new batting coach, known for his innovative Power Hitting Program. Alongside him, Rene Ferdinands joins as spin-bowling coach with his biomechanics expertise. These appointments come just before Sri Lanka's upcoming tour of Pakistan and a tri-series with Afghanistan.

Key Points: Sri Lanka Appoint Julian Wood and Rene Ferdinands as Coaches

  • Julian Wood brings innovative Power Hitting Program combining cricket with biomechanics
  • Rene Ferdinands holds PhD in biomechanics from University of Waikato
  • Both coaches have extensive international experience with ECB and New Zealand Cricket
  • Appointments follow Sri Lanka's failure to qualify for Asia Cup Super Fours
2 min read

SLC appoints Julian Wood as national batting coach; Rene Ferdinands named spin-bowling coach

SLC names Julian Wood as national batting coach and Rene Ferdinands as spin-bowling coach following Asia Cup disappointment, effective October 2025.

"Known for creating the innovative 'Power Hitting Program' - Article"

Colombo, Oct 4

Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has appointed Julian Wood as the new batting coach of the national men's cricket team for a one-year term, commencing October 1, 2025. The move comes after Sri Lanka failed to qualify for the Super Fours stage of the recently-concluded 2025 Asia Cup, where India were crowned champions.

Known for creating the innovative “Power Hitting Program,” he combines cricket techniques with modern training and biomechanics to enhance a player’s hitting power. Wood has extensive experience, having worked with the ECB, Gloucestershire CCC, Hampshire CCC, Middlesex CCC, and IPL team Punjab Kings.

Earlier this year, he led a one-week training camp with Sri Lanka’s national squads, helping them prepare for upcoming international matches, including the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup.

Furthermore, Rene Ferdinands has been appointed as the National Spin Bowling Coach, with his role effective from September 30, 2025.

Ferdinands, who holds a PhD in biomechanics from the University of Waikato, has extensive experience in using science to improve cricket performance. He has also worked with the National Cricket Academy of India (NCA), where he provided biomechanics-focused coaching programs for top players and coaches.

Ferdinands, an expert in wrist and finger spin, has also worked as a biomechanics consultant for New Zealand Cricket, conducting performance evaluations and injury-risk assessments for some of the top bowlers on the side.

Alongside his international duties, Ferdinands has served as a coach for several clubs, including Eastern Suburbs Cricket Club, UTS North Sydney Cricket Club, Hawkesbury Cricket Club, and Sydney University Cricket Club. Ferdinands will lead spin bowling training, match preparation, performance analysis, and player development during his two-year stint with Sri Lanka Cricket.

The Sri Lankan men’s team is set to tour Pakistan for three ODIs starting on 11 November 11, followed by a tri-series in the country involving Afghanistan, beginning on November 17.

-- IANS

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
Interesting that Rene Ferdinands worked with NCA India. Our spin bowling has improved so much with scientific approach. Hope he brings similar success to Sri Lanka. The Asia Cup performance was disappointing but these appointments look promising!
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Arjun K
As an Indian cricket fan, I'm happy to see our neighbors strengthening their coaching staff. Strong Sri Lankan team makes Asia Cup more competitive. Congratulations to both coaches! Hope they help revive SL cricket 🏏
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Sarah B
While the appointments seem good on paper, I hope SLC gives them enough time to implement changes. Too often we see coaches changed quickly when results don't come immediately. Building a team takes patience and consistent approach.
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Vikram M
Wood's IPL experience with Punjab Kings will be valuable! T20 cricket has changed batting completely. Sri Lankan batsmen need to adapt to modern power hitting while maintaining their classical technique. Tough balancing act!
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Kavya N
Good to see focus on women's cricket too in the article. Hope these coaches work with women's team as well. Indian women's team has shown how proper coaching can transform performance. All the best to Sri Lanka! 👏

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