Derbyshire sign Sri Lanka all-rounder Jeevan Mendis for first half of 2017

28 October 2016 06:38

Derbyshire have signed Sri Lanka all-rounder Jeevan Mendis as their overseas player for the first half of next season.

The 33-year-old, who has represented his country on 70 occasions in limited-overs cricket, will be available for the Specsavers County Championship and Royal London One-Day Cup.

Mendis will make way for South Africa leg-spinner Imran Tahir after the Champions Trophy in June.

"Jeevan is another highly experienced international spin bowler who will strengthen our squad for the first part of the season," said Derbyshire director of cricket Kim Barnett.

"He is an experienced match-winner who will also help our talented youngsters, and we're excited to have Jeevan with us.

"We hope he can play an important role as we look for a good start to both competitions."

Mendis said: "I'm excited about the opportunity to play county cricket for Derbyshire next summer.

"I am looking forward to meeting the players and helping the club make a good start to the new season."

Source: PA