Cricket Victoria is set for a new chapter in its women’s cricket journey with the appointment of Dulip Samaraweera as the Head Coach of the Victorian women’s team. Samaraweera, who has been serving in the interim capacity, brings a wealth of experience and a promising vision to the role, aiming to propel the team to greater heights in the upcoming seasons.
Graham Manou, Cricket Victoria’s General Manager of Cricket Performance, expressed his delight at Samaraweera’s permanent appointment, citing his proven coaching acumen and strong rapport with the players. Samaraweera’s journey to this leadership role is marked by dedication and a deep-rooted connection to the game.
A former Test and One-Day International player for Sri Lanka, Samaraweera’s cricketing prowess was honed at the prestigious Colts Cricket Club in Colombo. His transition into coaching saw him join Cricket Victoria in 2008 as a specialist batting coach, a role where he made significant contributions to the development of players over the years.
His elevation to the interim Head Coach position in November of the previous year marked a pivotal moment in Samaraweera’s coaching journey. Under his stewardship, the team has already showcased promising signs of progress both on and off the field, setting the stage for a bright future.
Sharelle McMahon, Cricket Victoria’s Head of Female Cricket, echoed Manou’s sentiments, emphasizing Samaraweera’s positive impact on the cricketing performance team. McMahon highlighted the significance of promoting internal talent, underlining Cricket Victoria’s commitment to nurturing homegrown coaching talent.
Samaraweera’s appointment comes at a crucial juncture for women’s cricket in Victoria, with the sport experiencing unprecedented growth and recognition on the global stage. The prospect of leading a talented squad brimming with potential is one Samaraweera relishes, as he sets his sights on guiding the team to success in the upcoming seasons.
Expressing gratitude for the opportunity, Samaraweera acknowledged the dedication and determination of the Victorian athletes, emphasizing the exciting prospects that lie ahead for women’s cricket in the state. With a firm belief in the squad’s capabilities and a focus on building depth through Premier Cricket and pathway systems, Samaraweera is poised to instill a culture of excellence and achievement.
As Samaraweera assumes his new role, Cricket Victoria sets its sights on further bolstering the women’s program by recruiting an Assistant Coach specializing in batting. With Samaraweera at the helm, the stage is set for an exciting journey ahead, characterized by growth, development, and success on the cricketing field.
In Samaraweera, Cricket Victoria has found not just a coach, but a leader who embodies the values of the game and possesses the vision to chart a course towards sustained excellence. As the team gears up for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, all eyes will be on Samaraweera and his charges as they embark on this exciting new chapter in Victorian women’s cricket.
