Jamie Siddons takes over as head coach of Sri Lanka Women

Sri Lanka Cricket have announced the appointment of Jamie Siddons as the head coach of the national women's team. His one-year term begins on March 16, 2026.

The former Australian cricketer replaces Rumesh Ratnayake, who had been in-charge since February 2023. Under the Sri Lankan, the Chamari Athapaththu-led side clinched their maiden Asia Cup T20 in 2024, beating title favourites India.

Siddons has previously served as the head coach of the Bangladesh men's team from 2007 to 2011. A Level 3 qualified coach, Siddons has also served as head coach of South Australia cricket team from 2015 to 2020 and served in the same caapcity at Wellington Firebirds, New Zealand, from 2011 to 2015.

In his extensive first-class career, spanning 160 games, Siddons captained both South Australia and Victoria. He's also played 70 List A games and one ODI for the country. The 61-year-old will take on the responsibility of guiding Sri Lanka's women's team in preparation for the Women's T20 World Cup 2026, scheduled to be held in June in England. His first assignment will be Sri Lanka's tour of Bangladesh, scheduled to take place in April-May 2026.