Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) announced that Chandika Hathurusinghe has been asked to come back in order to discuss Sri Lanka team’s preparation plans for the upcoming ICC World Cup.

The statement came amid strong speculations that the Head Coach of the Sri Lankan cricket team would be axed ahead of the World Cup starting in June. 

SLC also confirmed that Hathurusinghe would return to the country after the conclusion of the five-match ODI series with South Africa. Steve Rixon, former Australian wicketkeeper and the current Fielding Coach, will replace Hathurusinghe during the T20 series with South Africa later this month. 

However, it is learnt that Sri Lanka Cricket officials have discussed the removal of Hathurusinghe with Sports Minister Harin Fernando. 

Apart from the role of the Head Coach, Sri Lanka captain Lasith Malinga's lethargic approach on the field has also earned severe criticism from Sri Lankan cricket fans and critics.  

Despite concerns over Malinga's leadership ability, he has been named the captain of the Sri Lankan team for the T20 series against South Africa.