Bangladesh fans celebrate during the U19 Cricket World Cup final against India in Potchefstroom
Bangladesh fans will hope new head coach Chandika Hathurusingha, who led the side to their first one-day international series victories over Pakistan, India and South Africa while they also reached the 2015 World Cup quarter-finals, can bring the good times back. Image Credit: AFP

Bangladesh have appointed Chandika Hathurusingha for a second spell as head coach, with the former Sri Lanka batsman signing a two-year deal, the country’s cricket board announced on Tuesday.

Hathurusingha, 54, previously coached Bangladesh from 2014-2017, leading them to their first one-day international series victories over Pakistan, India and South Africa while they also reached the 2015 World Cup quarter-finals.

Bangladesh also notched up maiden test wins over England, Australia and Sri Lanka before Hathurusingha resigned and took over as Sri Lanka head coachin 2017.

'Warmth of the people'

He will take up his duties with Bangladesh next month. “It’s an honour to have been given this opportunity to coach the Bangladesh national team once again,” Hathurusingha said in a statement.

“I really loved the warmth of the people and the culture of Bangladesh whenever I have been there. I’m looking forward to working with the players once again and enjoy their successes.” Bangladesh are scheduled to host England in two white-ball series starting on March 1.