15 days ago|Sports · Cricket
Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has announced two significant appointments to its national coaching staff, bringing in international expertise in power hitting and spin bowling biomechanics.
Julian Wood: The New National Batting Coach
Julian Wood has been appointed as the National Batting Coach for a period of one year, effective October 1, 2025.
Wood is widely known as the creator of the innovative "Power Hitting Program." He specializes in combining traditional cricketing techniques with modern training methods and biomechanics to significantly boost a player's hitting power.
Experience Highlights:
- ECB and County Cricket: Wood has previously worked with the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), as well as county clubs like Gloucestershire CCC, Hampshire CCC, and Middlesex CCC.
- IPL and International Exposure: He has also worked with the IPL franchise Punjab Kings.
- Prior Sri Lanka Stint: Earlier this year, Wood successfully conducted a special one-week training program with Sri Lanka's national squads, helping them prepare for upcoming international assignments, including the ongoing ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup.
Dr. Rene Ferdinands: National Spin Bowling Coach
Dr. Rene Ferdinands has been appointed as the National Spin Bowling Coach, effective September 30, 2025, for a two-year tenure.
Dr. Ferdinands is uniquely qualified, holding a PhD in biomechanics from the University of Waikato. He specializes in applying scientific principles to enhance cricket performance and reduce injury risks.
Experience Highlights:
- India’s NCA: He previously worked with the National Cricket Academy of India (NCA), where he delivered biomechanics-based coaching programs for elite players and coaches.
- New Zealand Cricket: Dr. Ferdinands has served as a biomechanics consultant for New Zealand Cricket, focusing on performance evaluations and injury-risk assessments for top bowlers.
- Role at SLC: During his tenure, he will lead spin bowling training, match preparation, performance analysis, and overall player development, specializing in both wrist and finger spin techniques.
These appointments reflect SLC's push to integrate cutting-edge training methodologies, biomechanics, and power analysis into the national team setup, aiming to enhance player performance across both batting and bowling departments. (NewsCenter)