Justin Langer is confident he can help overturn Australia's faltering Twenty20 fortunes when he takes the national side's reins for February's series against Sri Lanka.

The former Test opening batsman has been appointed caretaker Australian coach for the three T20 clashes while incumbent Darren Lehmann is in India preparing for a four-Test series.

Langer beat a strong list of contenders to the role, including fellow Test greats Shane Warne, Jason Gillespie, Ricky Ponting and Michael Hussey, who were all believed to be interested.

It was expected Langer, who played 105 Tests, would be unavailable for the gig due to coaching duties with Western Australia in the Sheffield Shield.

But the temporary appointment confirms his status as Lehmann's most likely successor, with Langer also standing in to guide the national team to a one-day tri-series win in the Caribbean in June.

Langer also coaches Big Bash League team Perth Scorchers.

He said he was keen to develop Australia's skills in the shortest format after some disappointing recent performances, including this year's World T20 where the team failed to progress past the quarter finals.

"Twenty20 international cricket is the one format in which Australia is yet to win a global tournament," Langer said.

"So every chance we get to play it and develop our skills is very significant.

"That means these three matches will be hugely important."

AAP