Chris Silverwood has made a swift return to cricket as head coach of Sri Lanka, barely two months after being sacked as England boss after an Ashes thrashing.

England succumbed to a 4-0 defeat against Australia, with significant questions asked of their selections and batting, and it meant Silverwood was soon ousted from the post he had held since October 2019.

Now the former fast bowler will take up the top job with Sri Lanka, and one of his first challenges will be a home series against Australia in June and July.

Sri Lanka Cricket pointed to Silverwood's international experience and domestic success as coach of Essex, whom he led to County Championship glory in the 2017 season.

Silverwood has signed a two-year contract, and the 47-year-old said: "I am very excited to be on board with Sri Lanka and I cannot wait to get over to Colombo and get started.

"They have a talented and passionate group of players and I am really looking forward to meeting up with the players and coaching staff very soon."

Sri Lanka tour Bangladesh in May, and the two-Test series will be Silverwood's immediate focus.

Sri Lanka Cricket CEO Ashley De Silva described Silverwood as "extremely experienced".

"And from our discussions with him in the recruitment process it is clear he has the required qualities we are looking for to take the team forward," De Silva said.