Woutersz named SL team manager for Pakistan, India series

Jeryl Woutersz, the former first-class cricketer and domestic match referee, has been appointed Sri Lanka's team manager for the incoming tours of Pakistan and India.

Woutersz's appointment is the latest in a slew of changes effected by the new interim committee. In addition to having named a new selection panel for the men's national side on Wednesday, the board has also appointed a new selection panel for the women's team, headed by former Sri Lanka quick Vinothen John.

Woutersz, whose term begins on May 1, has recently been the manager of the Sri Lanka under-19 side - a role in which he had impressed with his integrity, SLC vice-president Kushil Gunasekara said. "Jerry is a very disciplined sort of person, and someone who can earn and command respect, which was important to the committee," he said.

"We're not trying to compare him with anyone who's done the job previously, but as a new committee, we needed to infuse a new kind of thinking. We are called upon to make changes and bring greater productivity. We hear Jerry has done a very good job as under-19 manager, and he fits the bill."

Though at present Woutersz's term ends after India's August tour, the committee has appointed him with a view to keeping him in the role more permanently. "If he fares well, I'm sure he can continue," Gunasekara said.

Alongside John in the new women's selection committee are former Sri Lanka quick Uvais Karnain, and former first-class batsman Varuna Weeragoda. Ex-women's team captain Vanessa de Silva has also been appointed the women's team manager.

Woutersz had played in the 1982 rebel tour to South Africa under Bandula Warnapura, and had been a stalwart of the Burgher Recreation Club side of the 1980s, playing as a slow-bowling allrounder. He replaces Michael de Zoysa as the team's manager. De Zoysa's contract had expired after the World Cup.

Sri Lanka's next international assignment, against Pakistan, is not expected to begin until mid-June, though the schedule for that tour has not yet been announced.