### Lasith Malinga Returns to Sri Lanka Cricket as Fast Bowling Consultant Ahead of T20 World Cup 2026 Lasith Malinga, the legendary Sri Lankan fast bowler, has been appointed as the consultant fast bowling coach for the national men's cricket team. This strategic move by Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) comes as the team gears up for the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026, which they are set to co-host with India starting in early February. Malinga's appointment is for a short-term period, running from December 15, 2025, to January 25, 2026, and aims to leverage his extensive experience in T20 cricket to enhance the team's pace attack during their preparations for the tournament [http://island.lk/lasith-malinga-to-work-with-the-sri-lanka-team-in-lead-up-to-t20-world-cup, https://www.rediff.com/cricket/report/sri-lanka-appoints-lasith-malinga-as-fast-bowling-coach/20251230.htm]. ### Structure of Malinga's Appointment and Role 1. **Appointment Details** - Malinga has been appointed as the consultant fast bowling coach for a duration of 40 days. - His role is specifically to assist the national team in their preparations for the T20 World Cup [https://www.cricketnmore.com/cricket-news/sri-lanka-appoint-lasith-malinga-as-fast-bowling-consultant-to-aid-t20-world-cup-preparations-185095]. 2. **Background and Experience** - Malinga is renowned for his exceptional skills in white-ball cricket, having been one of Sri Lanka's most successful bowlers. - His previous experience as a player and captain will be invaluable in mentoring the current squad [https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/sports-games/3745397-lasith-malinga-returns-as-sri-lankas-fast-bowling-coach-for-t20-world-cup-2026]. 3. **Objectives of the Appointment** - The primary goal is to enhance the fast bowling unit of the Sri Lankan team, focusing on strategies and techniques that are effective in T20 formats. - Malinga's insights are expected to help the team adapt to the pressures of international competition, especially in a World Cup setting [https://www.crictracker.com/cricket-news/sri-lanka-cricket-appoints-lasith-malinga-as-interim-fast-bowling-consultant-ahead-of-t20-world-cup-2026]. ### Supporting Evidence of Malinga's Impact - **Previous Achievements**: Malinga has a storied career, including being the leading wicket-taker for Sri Lanka in T20 internationals, which underscores his capability to guide the current players [https://www.newkerala.com/news/o/sri-lanka-appoint-lasith-malinga-fast-bowling-consultant-aid-477]. - **Coaching Philosophy**: His approach will likely focus on developing skills that are crucial for success in T20 cricket, such as variations in pace and strategic bowling in high-pressure situations [https://www.latestly.com/quickly/agency-news/lasith-malinga-named-sri-lanka-s-consultant-fast-bowling-coach-ahead-of-icc-t20-world-cup-2026-7257277.html]. ### Conclusion: Malinga's Role is Crucial for Sri Lanka's T20 World Cup Aspirations In summary, **Lasith Malinga's appointment as the consultant fast bowling coach is a significant step for Sri Lanka Cricket as they prepare for the T20 World Cup 2026**. His extensive experience and proven track record in T20 cricket will be instrumental in shaping the team's bowling strategy. The key points of this appointment include: 1. **Short-term Role**: Malinga's consultancy is for a limited period, emphasizing focused preparation. 2. **Expertise Utilization**: His background as a top-tier fast bowler will provide critical insights to the current squad. 3. **Strategic Goals**: The aim is to refine the fast bowling unit, ensuring they are competitive on the world stage. This strategic move reflects SLC's commitment to enhancing their performance in the upcoming World Cup, leveraging Malinga's expertise to maximize the team's potential [https://thesportstak.com/cricket/t20-world-cup/story/sri-lanka-make-valuable-addition-to-coaching-staff-bring-in-lasith-malinga-ahead-of-2026-t20-world-cup-3223845-2025-12-30].