Scotland keen to sign Jayasuriya

The Scottish Saltires are hoping to sign Sanath Jayasuriya, the former Sri Lankan captain, as an overseas player for 2005 - their third season in Division Two of the National League.

Jayasuriya will not be the Scots' first big-name signing - last year they enlisted the services of Rahul Dravid. This season Sridharan Sriram, the Indian allrounder, turned out for the Saltires, although he failed to make an impact as big as Dravid.

"We have had initial chats with various agents, and there are one or two big names who are interested in coming over," said Craig Wright, Scotland's captain. "Jayasuriya is one of several we are talking to."

He went on: "I think that whoever comes would appreciate the fact that it is not a full county season. That was one of the things that appealed to Rahul. With 18 one-day games there is not so much stress or strain, and with the amount of international cricket that is played now, coming here would give a player a rest while keeping him ticking over. It is the lifestyle options that make our situation appealing."

Jayasuriya, 35, has been a mainstay of Sri Lanka's top order for almost 15 years, scoring 9782 one-day runs, including a whopping 185 sixes, at an average of 31.96. His Test stats are equally impressive, and Jayasuriya is also a more-than-useful left-arm spinner.

Scotland do not have the financial backing to compete with the English first-class counties when it comes to attracting star talent, and Dravid's wages were partly paid for by an enthusiastic Indian community in Scotland. It will cost around £30,000 to recruit a world-class player such as Jayasuriya.

"Obviously we would like to be able to make a decision as soon as possible, because it would encourage season-ticket package sales and create a buzz," said Wright. "The names we are targeting are high-calibre, so it makes it all the more frustrating."

Meanwhile, Scotland are preparing for the ICC Intercontinental Cup finals in United Arab Emirates next month. They will take on Kenya in the semi-finals, having beaten Ireland by eight wickets to qualify from the European group. "This is pretty much the strongest squad we have ever had available," said Wright. "On paper we are at full strength, which is exciting."