Suresh Perera

Suresh Perera was at one time considered to be the most naturally talented allrounder in Sri Lanka by coach Dav Whatmore, who pushed for him to be given an extended opportunity to fulfill his raw potential. A right-arm medium-fast bowler, his sideways-on whippy action allowed him to swing the ball. His outstanding eye for a ball allowed him to score runs freely. He first rose to prominence when selected to play against England A during their tour of Sri Lanka (February 1998) before going on to make his Test debut at The Oval in 1998 Test where he took the wicket of Alec Stewart and smashed an entertaining 43*. This was followed by over a year out of the game with a stress fracture of the back. During the 2000-01 season he made a comeback for his club, the Sinhalese Sports Club, and was then fast tracked back into contention for the Coca-Cola Cup in Sri Lanka (July 2001) and the following three-Test series against India (August 2001). He starred in one match scoring an unbeaten 56 to guide Sri Lanka home against New Zealand, but proved expensive with the ball. He was reported by umpire Steve Bucknor for having a suspect action after the first Test in Galle and the next Test at Kandy - during which it was clear his confidence had taken a knock - was his last outing. Cleared by the ICC, he remained on the fringes of the Sri Lankan squad.