South African Nic Pothas appointed Sri Lanka fielding coach

Colombo, July 29 (CRICKETNMORE) Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) on Friday appointed former South Africa stumper Nic Pothas as the national cricket team's fielding coach.

Pothas, who was the academy director at Leicestershire county, will begin his new role on August 8, according to SLC.

"Our last few outings are showing a marked improvement in the batting and bowling, however our fielding has been letting us down," SLC president Thilanga Sumathipala said.

"Pothas joining the support team already in place will give the necessary boost to this important area. We always believe in engaging the best professional advice and technical support for our national team, and this appointment is one such positive step."

Pothas also thanked Leicestershire county for releasing him from his contract.

"I will forever be grateful to Leicestershire County cricket club for the opportunity to join at an exciting time," Pothas said. "But the opportunity to be involved in the game at the highest level is not one that I could pass up."

Pothas played three ODIs for South Africa in 2000.