In a significant move that blends familiarity with forward-looking ambition, USA Cricket has named Pubudu Dassanayake as the new Head Coach of the Men’s National Team. For Dassanayake, it’s more than just a new chapter—it’s a return to a team he helped shape during one of its most pivotal eras.
Dassanayake, a former Sri Lankan international cricketer, last helmed the USA squad from 2016 to 2019, a period that saw the team rise through the ranks of international competition to finally secure coveted One Day International (ODI) status. Now, with the cricketing landscape in America evolving rapidly, he’s back to steer the team through its next phase of growth.
His resume speaks for itself. After representing Sri Lanka in 11 Tests and 16 ODIs in the early ’90s, Dassanayake migrated to Canada, where he not only captained the national side but eventually transitioned into coaching. Over the past decade, he has taken the reins of multiple national teams—Canada, Nepal, and the USA—consistently driving results on the world stage. He guided Canada to the 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup and was instrumental in helping Nepal qualify for its inaugural ICC World Twenty20 in 2014.
In his initial run with USA Cricket, Dassanayake oversaw a dramatic ascent, propelling the team from World Cricket League Division Four all the way to ODI recognition in just a few years. His leadership style—rooted in building a cohesive team culture and developing long-term potential—left an imprint that still influences the squad today.
Fresh from a successful stint as head coach of Canada’s men’s team, where he led them to reclaim ODI status and qualify for their first-ever ICC T20 World Cup in 2024, Dassanayake returns to the USA setup with renewed energy and vision.
“It’s a great honor to be back,” Dassanayake said. “I’m proud of what we built during my previous tenure, and I believe this team has what it takes to reach even greater heights. I’m looking forward to working with the players and staff to create something truly special.”
The timing of his return is no coincidence. With momentum building after Canada’s T20 World Cup qualification and the USA team setting its sights on the 2026 T20 World Cup and 2027 ODI World Cup, USA Cricket leadership is betting on Dassanayake’s proven track record to carry them forward.
“Pubudu joins us at a crucial moment,” said USA Cricket CEO Johnathan Atkeison. “We’re focused on maintaining the upward trajectory. His experience and leadership are exactly what we need to realize our ambitions on the global stage.”
Dassanayake’s appointment comes ahead of USA’s upcoming fixtures in the Cricket World Cup League 2 series in Florida—a key stretch that will help define the team’s near-term competitive outlook.
Meanwhile, Vincent Kumar, who stepped in as Interim Head Coach during recent campaigns in Oman and the North American Cup, will resume his role as Assistant Coach. He will also continue leading the USA Men’s U19 program.
“We’re immensely grateful to Vincent for stepping up during this transitional period,” added Atkeison. “His continued role in developing young talent remains vital to our long-term vision.”
With Dassanayake back at the helm and a renewed focus on development and global competitiveness, USA Cricket is positioning itself not just for short-term success—but for sustained relevance on the international stage.
