(UDHAYAM, COLOMBO) – Proteas legend says his new side have the capability to take out the upcoming Champions Trophy, as they sweat on Malinga’s fitness.
Famed South Africa fast-bowler Allan Donald began his appointment as Sri Lanka’s interim bowling coach by declaring the squad has the potential to claim victory in next month’s Champions Trophy.
Donald was hired by the Sri Lankan cricket board as a fast bowling consultant ahead of the tournament in England.
“The Sri Lankan attack has what it takes to win the tournament,” the 72-Test veteran told reporters at the cricket board headquarters.
“Sri Lanka has a lot of skills. Lot of leadership with the ball… what is there to be scared of?”
Donald, who filled in for Australia as a bowling coach on their tour of Sri Lanka last year, said his was an “inspirational role” and he would be working closely with the squad to assess their individual goals, health condition and personalities.
Head coach Graham Ford, a fellow Protea, has been preparing the 15-man squad led by Angelo Mathews for the 50-over tournament starting June 1.
Donald will work with Sri Lankan pace bowling coaches Chaminda Vaas, Champaka Ramanayake, Ravindra Pushpakumara and Nuwan Zoysa.
Under his watch will be pace ace Lasith Malinga, whose fitness Sri Lanka are sweating on ahead of the Champions Trophy.
Following a succession of injuries, the slinging right-armer made a return to international cricket in a three-match T20 International series in Australia in February, but hasn’t played an ODI in about 18 months.
Ford however expects Malinga, whose six Indian Premier League wickets have cost nearly 40 runs apiece and has an uncharacteristically high economy rate of 9.95 from six matches, to be fit for their tournament-opener on June against South Africa.
“I’m really hoping that he’s going to be 100% fit,” Ford said. “Before he left for the IPL, some of the work that he was putting in gave me great confidence.
“All the indications are that he’s going to be able to give us something special.
“As time runs out on his career, he’s very determined to make an impact on this Champions Trophy.”
Courtesy: cricket.com.au
