Mark Robinson: Sussex coach to head England Lions tour

Sussex cricket manager Mark Robinson will be head coach for the England Lions tour to Sri Lanka in early 2014.

The side will play three four-day Tests against the Sri Lanka A team, with the full schedule yet to be announced.

ECB performance director David Parsons said: "We are delighted to give Mark the opportunity to come into the England Lions set-up.

"This should provide him with an excellent opportunity to learn what the England cricket programme is about."

He added: "Also, we will be able to benefit greatly from Mark's experience as one of our leading coaches within the first-class game."

Selection for the England Lions side will take place in mid-December, with the squad announcement being made before the end of this year.

The touring party will arrive in Colombo on 27 January and depart on 2 March.

Robinson, who has been cricket manager at Hove since late 2005, has previously taken charge of the England Under-19 side.

Parsons believe the tour to Sri Lanka will proved a good test for the Lions.

"Training and playing competitive cricket in challenging conditions against tough opposition is always a great way for our players to further their individual games," he said.

"This tour will act as an important part of developing and identifying the England players of the future."