ENGLAND: (ePRESS) – Sri Lanka’s Test cricket team has secured the services of former England Test batting star Ian Bell for the upcoming Rothesay Test series against England, which will begin on August 21 at Emirates Old Trafford in Manchester.
Bell, 42, will start working with the Sri Lankan squad on August 16. With 118 Test matches, 7,727 runs, and 22 centuries to his name, Bell brings extensive experience to the team.
Ashley De Silva, CEO of Sri Lanka Cricket, stated, “We appointed Ian to provide valuable insights and local knowledge about playing conditions in England. His experience will be crucial for our team on this important tour.”
Since retiring in 2020, Bell has built a successful coaching career. He has served as batting coach for England’s U-19 and Lions teams, worked with Hobart Hurricanes, Derbyshire, and New Zealand, and most recently, as assistant coach with Melbourne Renegades and Birmingham Phoenix.
England batter Jamie Smith, who works with Bell, noted, “Ian has reminded me several times he will be in the opposing camp. His expertise will be vital for Sri Lanka, who aim to win their first Test series in England since 2014.”
Sri Lanka’s squad, led by Dhananjaya de Silva, will play their three matches in Manchester (August 21-25), Lord’s (August 29-September 2), and The Oval (September 6-10).
