LONDON, April 2: Bob Woolmer has declined an offer to coach Sri Lanka to continue his consultancy role for the International Cricket Council (ICC).

Woolmer told BBC Sport website: “They did ask me but I turned them down.”

New Zealand are due to arrive in Sri Lanka later this month for a two-Test series and one-day triangular tournament, also involving Pakistan.

And it is unclear whether current incumbent Dav Whatmore, whose contract finishes at end of May, will stay on for the series.

Whatmore was surprised to hear on Monday that his contract would not be renewed but he remains in charge for this week’s Sharjah Cup.

Woolmer had been interviewed for similar post with West Indies side a month ago, although they opted for Australian Bennett King.

He revealed he had successfully negotiated with ICC to stay on as high performance director after signing a fresh two-year contract.

His initial contract, to help Canada, Holland, Kenya and Namibia with their World Cup preparations, has ended, but believes he can continue that role in a different vein.

Woolmer said: “There was phone call from Sri Lanka asking me if I was interested, but I have put my target on ICC role for associate nations.” —PPI