Rixon the latest to turn down Sri Lanka job

Australian Steve Rixon is set to become the latest shortlisted candidate to turn down the chance of coaching Sri Lanka, according to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC).

Rixon, the former New Zealand coach, has apparently confirmed his commitment to New South Wales, according to NSW chief executive David Gilbert.

"He indicated to me that he was continue the job with NSW. He has had an approach from Sri Lanka but he suggested that it did not appeal," Gilbert told the ABC.

Should Rixon confirm his unwillingness to leave NSW, then the Sri Lanka Cricket Board will have exhausted its shortlist of replacements for Dav Whatmore, who was told three weeks ago that his contract would not be renewed.

Englishman Bob Woolmer, South African Graeme Ford and Kiwi John Bracewell, the other shortlisted candidates, have all said they don't want to be considered for the vacant post.

Former Sri Lanka captain Duleep Mendis has been appointed interim coach for the forthcoming test series against New Zealand and the triangular series that follows but the cricket board wants a full-time coach to take over for the Sri Lanka tour of West Indies in June.