Chandika Hathurusingha – newly appointed Sri Lankan Head Coach, on Wednesday, said he is looking forward to the challenge as a very good opportunity, as well as is confident that he can revive the slumped fortunes of the national team despite a string of humiliating defeats in the recent times.

The 49-year-old former Lankan Test batsman was officially appointed Head Coach of the side on December 8, and he will take charge after the conclusion of the ongoing tour of India.

As per Wisden India, Hathurusingha said, “Listening to president and the sports minister and thinking of all the expectations, there’s no pressure for me. This is all opportunities.”

He added, “Looking from outside, looking at our team, I thought it’s a great opportunity for me to come here and coach my own country to maximise the potential in the Sri Lanka team that I see from outside. I am proud to take this opportunity and looking forward to that challenge and I take that challenge as a very good opportunity to take the team forward.”

Hathurusingha also thanked Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) for giving him the “great opportunity”, saying it is a “great honour” for him to coach his National Team.

He concluded by saying, “My plans with Bangladesh, New South Wales, Sri Lanka A and Moors have all been successful. I will be implementing a similar plan. This team has the potential to go two or three steps higher if we go along with a plan.”

After the conclusion of the India tour, Sri Lanka is scheduled to travel to Bangladesh for a tri-series also involving Zimbabwe, followed by two-Tests with the home side.