Sri Lanka Cricket appoints national batting and spin bowling coaches

Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has announced the appointments of Julian Wood as the National Batting Coach and Dr. Rene Ferdinands as the National Spin Bowling Coach.

Julian Wood, the creator of the innovative “Power Hitting Program,” has been appointed National Batting Coach for a period of one year, effective 1 October 2025.

Wood is renowned for his approach of integrating cricketing techniques with modern training methods and biomechanics to maximise players’ hitting power.

He brings extensive experience, having previously worked with the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), Gloucestershire CCC, Hampshire CCC, Middlesex CCC, and the IPL franchise Punjab Kings. Earlier this year, Wood conducted a special one-week training programme with Sri Lanka’s national squads, assisting them in preparation for international assignments, including the ongoing ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup.

Dr. Rene Ferdinands has been appointed National Spin Bowling Coach, effective 30 September 2025. Dr Ferdinands holds a PhD in biomechanics from the University of Waikato and brings vast expertise in applying science to enhance cricket performance.

He previously worked with the National Cricket Academy of India (NCA), delivering biomechanics-based coaching programmes for elite players and coaches.

A specialist in both wrist and finger spin, Dr Ferdinands has also served as a biomechanics consultant for New Zealand Cricket, carrying out performance evaluations and injury-risk assessments for leading bowlers.

During his two-year tenure with Sri Lanka Cricket, Dr Ferdinands will be responsible for leading spin bowling training, match preparation, performance analysis, and player development. His previous coaching roles include positions with Eastern Suburbs Cricket Club, UTS North Sydney Cricket Club, Hawkesbury Cricket Club, and Sydney University Cricket Club.