Former Sri Lanka Test batter-keeper Kaushal Silva will steer Hong Kong’s men at the upcoming T20 Asia Cup, confirmed the board late on Monday. The 39-year-old, who finished playing in 2019, steps into his first international head-coach post a little over a month before the side face Afghanistan on 9 September.
Silva’s CV is solid. Thirty-nine Tests between 2011 and 2018, a first-class tally touching 14,000 runs – mostly at the top of the order – and coaching stints in Sri Lanka, England and Australia since hanging up the gloves. Yet this role feels a notch up, and he admits the challenge appeals.
“My focus will be on instilling a strong work ethic and a winning mentality amongst the senior squad and working to identify and nurture fresh talent for continued growth,” he said during a brief media call from Colombo.
Cricket Hong Kong chair Burji Shroff welcomed the appointment. “Kaushal’s dedication to nurturing and developing talent resonates with our vision for the future of cricket in Hong Kong. We believe that under his guidance, we can not only elevate our competitive standing but also promote the sport within our community.”
Hong Kong arrive off the back of a runners-up finish at the Asia-Pacific Cricket Champions Trophy in Singapore, losing the final to Malaysia. Results were mixed, though observers noted an improved new-ball attack and sharper out-fielding. A senior player, requesting anonymity, summed up the mood: “We’re close – we just need someone to knit it together. Hopefully Kaushal is that person.”
Group B at the Asia Cup looks brisk. Bangladesh and Sri Lanka join Afghanistan and Hong Kong, with only two progressing. A single slip could prove costly, though Silva insists the target is simple: early momentum. Expect plenty of throw-downs, long skill blocks and, if his playing days are any guide, a fair bit of banter in Cantonese and Sinhala as an eclectic squad try to punch above their weight once more.
