Jayawardene is expected to be England’s batting consultant for a certain number of days per year

Image courtesy of: ESPNcricinfo

Former Sri Lanka batsman Mahela Jayawardene will join the England coach staff as a batting consultant and is understood to be accompanying the national team during their of the United Arab Emirates, where they will face Pakistan in a Test and limited overs series.

England are interested in Jayawardene’s services as he is renowned for being one of the most successful batsmen in Asian conditions.

However, Jaywardene, who retired from international cricket in March this year, is expected to be contracted for a certain number of days per year instead of joining England’s coaching staff on a full-time deal.

England will be picking Jayawardene’s brains over the next 18 months as they will be touring India and Bangladesh, as well as hosting Sri Lanka and Pakistan.

Jayawardene’s decision to join England as a batting consult will be a major disappointment for Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) as the 38-year-old has been helping them in an honorary capacity since he retired.