Suspense crime, Digital Desk : The USA men's cricket team has once again appointed former Sri Lankan international and acclaimed associate cricket coach Pubudu Dassanayake as their head coach. USA Cricket announced his appointment as part of a strategic plan leading up to the 2026 T20 World Cup, the 2027 ODI World Cup, and the Los Angeles Olympics in 2028.
Dassanayake, 54, previously served as head coach from 2016 to 2019, a period during which the team achieved ODI status for the very first time. He has also enjoyed fruitful coaching spells with Canada, returning them to ODI status in 2023, and Nepal, who he led to their maiden T20 World Cup in 2014.
Dassanayake’s Track Record Speaks Volumes
USA Cricket CEO Jonathan Atkeison disclosed that Dassanayake’s extensive experience in the associate cricket world and pre-existing knowledge of U.S. systems were determining factors in his readmission. “Pubudu is just outstanding in those capacities… someone who can hit the ground running,” Atkeison shared with Cricbuzz.
Fostering Relationships and Reviving an Old Legacy
Dassanayake's coming back also brings a reunion with the USA captain Monank Patel and vice-captain Jasdeep Singh, both of whom acknowledge that he was instrumental in their career development. For Dassanayake, in 2018 Monank was a random choice and within no time he became the batting backbone of the team. Jasdeep has often spoken of the coach’s wisdom after dealing with a personal tragedy in 2016.
“I am here to help Monank grow as a captain, help him perform and be at his best,” Dassanayake pointed out while also exercising the need to foster team cohesion around culture.
A Focus on a Results Driven Cricket Framework
Dassanayake underlined the requirement to formulate a defined approach to a team where effort, performance and work ethic is the primary driver for inclusion in the game.The coach’s past experience in MiLC brings knowledge of a particular gap in the U.S. domestic system and of the potential talent pathways with other systems like the MiLC.
“We want a system where every player feels they have a real chance to play for the national team,” he explained.
Strategy for Engagement of Broader Domestic Talent Pools
With increasing concern over narrow selection criteria, USA Cricket and Dassanayake endorsed less restrictive talent scouting guidelines. Primary domestic tournaments including the MLC, Houston Open, and Atlanta Open would have increased relevance for national team selection.
“Players evolve through various developmental pathways and we are willing to adjust our selection models provided we work hand in hand with stakeholders,” noted CEO Atkeison, explaining how USA Cricket is willing to change their selection models if needed.
Emphasizing Infrastructure and Elite Training Centers
Dassanayake is moving from Toronto to Dallas. This relocation places him within driving distance to Grand Prairie Stadium, a premier venue that is being considered as a base for high-performance training. While the venue caters top-tier infrastructure, it has not yet been fully optimized for advanced cricket training.
With Dassanayake, USA Cricket is looking forward to not only competing internationally, but also building a sustainable and inclusive cricketing ecosystem throughout the country.
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