In a significant development for Sri Lanka Cricket, Craig Howard, a seasoned figure in the cricket coaching realm, has been appointed as the National Spin Bowling Coach.
Howard, who previously served as the spin bowling coach for the New Zealand White Ferns and the Victorian Men's First Class team, brings a wealth of experience to his new role.
A Qualified Level 3 Cricket Coach from Cricket Australia, Howard boasts a remarkable 12-year tenure as the Consultant Coach of Cricket Australia. His expertise encompasses diverse roles, including spearheading CA's spin weeks, serving as the head of spin bowling for pathways, and contributing to the national teams.
The seasoned coach will kick off his responsibilities with the national team during the ongoing Afghanistan Tour of Sri Lanka, specifically taking charge during the ODI series. Having worked as an assistant coach for Australia 'A,' Cricket Australia XI, and Under-19 teams, both in the men's and women's systems, Howard's multifaceted experience positions him as a valuable asset for Sri Lanka.
His coaching journey extends to the South Australian Redbacks and Adelaide Strikers, where he held the position of spin bowling coach from 2011 to 2015. Howard's two-year contract officially commenced on February 1, 2024, marking the beginning of a new chapter in Sri Lanka Cricket under his guidance.