Kasun Rajitha signs five-match contract with Essex

Sri Lankan fast bowler Kasun Rajitha has joined Essex on a five-match stint in the Rothesay County Championship.

Rajitha, a right-arm quick with 18 Test appearances and 55 wickets at an average of 29.58, is set to bolster Essex’s bowling attack. He achieved a personal best of 5 for 56 during his most recent Test outing against Bangladesh in March 2024. Standing at nearly 6ft 4in, Rajitha is expected to be part of the squad for Essex’s third Championship fixture of the season, against Worcestershire, beginning Friday at Chelmsford.

His arrival reunites him with Essex's Director of Cricket, Chris Silverwood, who previously served as Sri Lanka’s head coach between 2022 and 2024. Silverwood believes the 31-year-old brings valuable experience and depth to an already potent pace lineup, especially in light of Shardul Thakur’s late call-up to the IPL.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Kasun to Essex,” said Silverwood. “His experience and skills will be a great asset to our bowling unit, which has already been performing superbly.”

In a statement issued by the club, Rajitha expressed his enthusiasm: “Joining Essex is a proud moment for me. I’ve followed their cricket over the years and admired the high-quality first-class cricket they’ve played. I’m excited to contribute and help the team win. I’d like to thank Chris Silverwood for this opportunity and Sri Lanka Cricket for supporting my development.”

Rajitha’s inclusion could prompt some rotation in Essex’s seam attack. Sam Cook, who has delivered 75 overs across four innings this season and taken seven wickets at 28.42, may be rested ahead of a potential England Test debut against Zimbabwe on May 22 at Trent Bridge.

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