Pathum will become world’s best batter, says Jayasuriya

by Rex Clementine

Sri Lanka’s prolific top-order batter, Pathum Nissanka, is set to rewrite the cricketing record books and ascend to the pinnacle of world batting, according to Head Coach Sanath Jayasuriya. The 26-year-old has already etched his name in history, shattering Jayasuriya’s long-standing record for the most runs in an ODI innings and becoming the first Sri Lankan to score a double century in limited-overs cricket. He followed it up with a masterful Test century on a seaming Oval pitch, steering Sri Lanka to their first win in England in a decade.

Nissanka currently flies the Sri Lankan flag high in the ICC rankings, sitting eighth in ODIs and ninth in T20s—the highest among his compatriots.

“Pathum isn’t just destined to top the ICC rankings; I believe he’s capable of much bigger things,” Jayasuriya declared at a media briefing at SLC headquarters yesterday.

“The effort he puts into training is nothing short of remarkable. He’s a hundred-percenter, a true workhorse with an insane level of discipline. He’s a professional, always striving to improve. He constantly engages with coaches, addressing the grey areas in his batting. As a coach, seeing that kind of dedication is heartening,” Jayasuriya said with evident pride.

Jayasuriya was quick to highlight that Nissanka isn’t alone in his commitment. “It’s not just Pathum—our entire batting unit deserves applause for their work ethic. Training sessions often stretch for hours because everyone is so focused on fine-tuning their skills. This team is cultivating an incredibly positive environment,” he added.

Sri Lanka’s cricket resurgence under Jayasuriya has been nothing short of spectacular. After clinching yet another series victory on Tuesday night, the team jetted off to South Africa in the early hours of the morning.

“When I took over, we were in dire straits. But with a lot of sweat and toil, we’ve climbed the ladder. However, reaching the summit isn’t the ultimate goal; staying there is the real challenge, and that demands even greater effort,” Jayasuriya emphasized, as determined as ever.

One of his key ambitions is to see Sri Lanka reclaim their crown as the world’s best fielding side.

“We were once the best fielding team in the world, and we want that glory back. With Upul Chandana as our fielding coach, supported by the rest of the staff, we’ve made significant strides. But this isn’t the finished article—we’re determined to keep improving,” Jayasuriya explained.

Jayasuriya also shed light on the decision to hire former South African Test cricketer Neil McKenzie as a Consultant Coach for two weeks, following a similar strategy during the England tour by bringing in Ian Bell.

“That move worked wonders, and we’re looking to replicate that success. Neil’s commitments mean he can only be with us briefly, but his insights have been invaluable. He’s been guiding the players on what to expect in South African conditions, from pitch behavior to optimal bowling lengths. The feedback we’ve received has been very encouraging. I’ll also be heading to South Africa to collaborate with him,” Jayasuriya revealed.