Malinga joins Kent on short-term deal

Sri Lanka's World Cup star, Lasith Malinga, has joined Kent on a short-term deal. Malinga, 23, will join the county for three weeks as a replacement for the South African all-rounder, Andrew Hall, who has international commitments.

Malinga, who bowls with a unique slinging round-arm action, grabbed four South Africa wickets in as many balls during a World Cup Super Eight match in March.

"I am delighted to get the opportunity and I consider the experience to be a great one,'' said Malinga. "I will try to maximise every opportunity at Kent for the betterment of my game.

"This is the first time I have played any form of domestic cricket in another country and I am looking forward to an enjoyable three weeks in the Kent dressing room.''

Kent's director of cricket, Graham Ford, confirmed the deal and an official announcement from the county is expected tomorrow. "He is a top performer," said Ford. "Andrew Hall was called up to return to South Africa so obviously we needed a replacement.''