Avishka Gunawardena Resigns from Sri Lanka Cricket

Sri Lankan cricket has been dealt a significant setback as experienced coach Avishka Gunawardena has officially tendered his resignation from Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC).

Gunawardena, widely respected for his contributions to player development, steps down after playing a crucial role in shaping the next generation of Sri Lankan cricketers. His departure marks the end of an impactful tenure that saw numerous young talents rise through the ranks.

A Key Figure in Player Development

During his time with SLC, Gunawardena was instrumental in nurturing emerging players, particularly through his work with the Sri Lanka A setup. Many cricketers who are now part of the national squad benefited from his guidance, mentorship, and structured development programs.

His coaching approach focused on discipline, technique, and mental strength—qualities that helped bridge the gap between domestic and international cricket for several players.

Recent Role with Sri Lanka U19 Team

In a recent development prior to his resignation, Gunawardena had been appointed as the head coach of the Sri Lanka Under-19 team. This appointment came after his successful stint as the head coach of Sri Lanka A, further highlighting the trust placed in his ability to groom young talent at critical stages of their careers.

A Major Loss for Sri Lankan Cricket

Gunawardena’s resignation is seen as a “huge blow” to Sri Lanka Cricket, given his deep involvement in talent identification and player progression pathways. His absence leaves a noticeable gap in the developmental structure, especially at a time when the country is focusing on rebuilding and strengthening its future squads.

A Legacy of Service

Beyond statistics and results, Gunawardena’s legacy lies in the players he helped shape and the systems he contributed to building. His commitment to Sri Lankan cricket has earned him widespread respect within the cricketing community.

As Sri Lanka Cricket moves forward, finding a suitable replacement to continue his work will be a key priority.

Looking Ahead

While the reasons behind his resignation have not been publicly detailed, the focus now shifts to how Sri Lanka Cricket will restructure its coaching framework and maintain continuity in its development programs.

Gunawardena’s contributions will undoubtedly be remembered as a vital chapter in Sri Lanka’s cricketing journey.