Gary Kirsten says he is excited about the challenge of leading Sri Lanka as the national team’s new head coach, while stressing the need to build confidence and consistency within the squad.

Speaking in a recent interview with Wisden, Kirsten said coaching international teams has been among the most fulfilling experiences of his career, noting that he enjoyed his time with India and South Africa more than franchise leagues.

He explained that franchise coaching had allowed him to spend more time with his family when his children were younger, but said he now feels ready to return to full-time international coaching.

“I really enjoyed those years of international coaching. Spending time building something over a long period of time rather than a one-month tournament was far more fulfilling to my coaching values,” he said.

Kirsten added that with his children now older, the opportunity to return to the international circuit with Sri Lanka came at the right time.

“It’s time for me to get back on the road and I’m really cherishing this opportunity,” he said.

The former South Africa cricketer said Sri Lanka possesses a large talent pool and has always produced exciting cricketers, including many with unorthodox styles that add value to the global game.

He noted that the immediate challenge will be to build confidence within the team environment while also improving consistency in performances.

“Everyone loves a winning team, so we have to start winning more consistently,” he said.

Kirsten also highlighted the importance of improving results away from home, which he said has historically been a challenge for many subcontinent teams.

With the next ODI World Cup scheduled to be held in South Africa, Namibia and Zimbabwe, Kirsten said adapting to overseas conditions will be a key focus.

He said another priority will be strengthening squad depth and ensuring healthy competition for places in the national side.

“Relying on one or two players to come good is a dangerous strategy. I’m very keen to build depth and create competition for positions,” he said.

Kirsten is expected to begin his role with Sri Lanka Cricket next month on a two-year contract, with the aim of improving the team’s performances and building a stable system ahead of upcoming global tournaments. (Newswire)

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