New pro' at Rishton by Nigel Stockley - 9th December 2004

Player:

Rishton have signed Sri Lankan Kumar Dharmasena as professional for 2005. The off spinning all rounder, full name Handunnettige Deepthi Priyantha Kumar Dharmasena, has played in 31 Tests and a remarkable 141 One Day Internationals in a career that began in 1989.

Dharmasena, who is Rishton's first Sri Lankan professional, is captain of Bloomfield back home, a team which also features Sanath Jayasuriya when he is not away on international duty.

The 33 year-old Sri Lankan has hit 1222 runs and taken 138 wickets in his 141 One Dayers. His quickish off spinning style is considered ideal for limited overs matches but it his unorthodox action also led to a two year absence from the international scene.