Sri Lanka Cricket has strengthened its coaching department by appointing two experienced coaches who will form part of Gary Kirsten’s coaching structure, as the board continues its efforts to build a robust pathway for future success.
Ryan van Niekerk has been named National Bowling Coach, bringing with him considerable international experience following his tenure with the Netherlands national side. Van Niekerk served as bowling coach and later interim head coach of the Netherlands from 2023 to 2026, where he played a significant role in shaping the team’s competitive performances on the global stage. During his stint, the Netherlands featured in major tournaments including the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 and multiple ICC Men’s T20 World Cups, gaining valuable exposure against top-tier opposition.
Prior to his interim head coach role, van Niekerk functioned as assistant coach and bowling coach, working closely with both senior and emerging players. His appointment is seen as a strategic move aimed at enhancing Sri Lanka’s fast-bowling depth, refining skill development programmes, and strengthening the transition from domestic cricket to the international arena. He will begin his two-year tenure on 15 April 2026.
Joining him is Jordan Gregory, who has been appointed National Fielding and Spin Bowling Coach. Gregory has previously worked as a fielding consultant with Netherlands Cricket, contributing to both bilateral and multinational competitions, including ICC tournaments. His role within Sri Lanka’s High Performance Centre will be wide-ranging, with responsibility for elevating fielding standards and overseeing spin-bowling development across all national teams, including the senior men’s side.
Fielding has long been identified as an area where Sri Lanka can make significant gains, and Gregory’s appointment signals a renewed emphasis on athleticism, agility, and modern fielding techniques. Additionally, his involvement in spin-bowling programmes is expected to benefit a traditional strength of Sri Lankan cricket by aligning technical development with contemporary tactical demands.
Both appointments are part of a broader restructuring effort designed to support the national teams under Gary Kirsten’s guidance. The High Performance Centre will serve as the nucleus for player development, ensuring consistency in coaching philosophies from youth levels through to the senior side.
Sri Lanka Cricket believes the inclusion of van Niekerk and Gregory will bring fresh perspectives, international exposure, and specialised expertise to the system. With their two-year tenures commencing on 15 April, the duo will immediately begin working within Kirsten’s coaching framework, aiming to enhance performance standards and lay the foundation for sustained success in the coming years.
