Suresh Perera involved in brawl

Suresh Perera, an allrounder once tipped to be an international star, was arrested last week on assault charges after becoming involved in a drunken brawl. Perera, now 27, was later released on bail by magistrates after being overnight in custody.

The alleged incident took place late on Wednesday evening outside Perera's residence. Perera and his friends had been drinking when a group of jeering passing men drew them into a fight by the roadside. Two men were later hospitalized after the fight which included the use of bottles and broken glass.

When Perera made his international debut against England at The Oval in 1998 he showed the potential to become an important part of Sri Lanka's one-day team which was desperat for a fast bowler who could also bat explosively in the lower order. But although he was championed by Dav Whatmore, Perera struggled to turn potential into performance in 20 ODIs and three Tests. His international career was then effectively ended when Steve Bucknor spotted a bend in his arm and reported his action as suspect during a Test against India in 2001.

His confidence plummeted afterwards and in recent seasons his career has drifted. During the last domestic season, having moved clubs to try and revive his career, he played just one first-class match for Colombo Cricket Club during the entire season.