Former Sri Lanka fast bowler Dhammika Prasad has been appointed as the fast bowling coach and assistant coach of the United States men’s national cricket team ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, scheduled to be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka from February 7 to March 8, 2026.

A product of De Mazenod College, Kandana, Prasad later joined Sinhalese Sports Club (SSC) as a right-arm fast-medium bowler and went on to enjoy a highly productive domestic career. He claimed an impressive 351 first-class wickets in 131 matches, underlining his consistency and durability at the highest level of domestic cricket.

Experience boost for USA ahead of 2026 T20 World Cup

At the international stage, Prasad represented Sri Lanka in 25 Tests, 24 ODIs and one T20 International between 2006 and 2015. He picked up 75 Test wickets, with best figures of 5 for 50, and added 32 wickets in ODIs. Known for his ability to strike early with the new ball, Prasad played pivotal roles in several memorable series wins, most notably Sri Lanka’s historic Test series triumph in England in 2014.

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After announcing his retirement from international cricket in 2021, Prasad transitioned smoothly into coaching. He has since built a solid résumé, working as a bowling coach and consultant across different international setups, including a stint as Nepal’s fast bowling coach. At 42, his new role with USA Cricket will see him work closely with the American pacers to refine their skills and enhance tactical awareness ahead of cricket’s biggest global event.

The USA enter the 2026 T20 World Cup with growing belief after their breakthrough campaign in 2024, where they reached the Super 8 stage and famously defeated Pakistan in a Super Over. Placed in a challenging Group A alongside defending champions India, Pakistan, Namibia and the Netherlands, the Americans will begin their campaign against India on the opening day - a true test of how far this emerging side has come.