Malinga joins Kent

Lasith Malinga © Getty Images

Kent have signed Sri Lanka World Cup star Lasith Malinga on a short-term deal.

Malinga will make his debut for the Spitfires at the Twenty20 Cup finals at Edgbaston on Saturday.

The 23-year-old paceman will join the county for four weeks as replacement for South Africa all-rounder Andrew Hall, who has international commitments.

Malinga, noted for his unorthodox action, caught the eye when he took 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 director of cricket Graham Ford said: “He is a top performer. Andrew Hall was called up to return to South Africa so obviously we needed a replacement.”