Colombo: The Sri Lankan Board on Saturday appointed former captain Duleep Mendis as the country's interim coach following Dav Whatmore's early release from the contract. Board's Interim Committee member Lucian Merrinnage said the former captain was best suited to do the job for the two-Test series at home against New Zealand and the triangular series which also involves Pakistan. "We believe that being a former captain, manager, chairman of selectors and strategic planner during the last few tours, he (Mendis) certainly has plenty of knowledge and experience," Merrinnage was quoted as saying on a website. "He is no doubt one of the best suited candidates to take over the coaching of the national team during this important time." Whatmore was released six weeks before the expiry of his contract with the Board after he reportedly made a request in this regard. "The Interim Committee has considered Dav's position and decided to release him. We understand his concerns for the future and we certainly wish him all the best," Merrinnage said. "He has done a good job during his tenure as the national coach of Sri Lanka and certainly formed a vital part of Sri Lankan cricket along with rest of the team." Steve Rixon of Australia, New Zealander John Bracewell and South African Graham Ford are in the fray for the post of full-time coach of the national team. Extras:
Rixon in fray for Whatmore's post

Tags: cricket, sri lankan cricket board, duleep mendis, dav whatmore, lucian merrinnage, steve rixon of australia, new zealander john bracewell, south african graham ford.