Sri Lanka legend Jayawardene to join Lancashire but not as overseas player

Sri Lankan batsman Mahela Jayawardene has been signed by Lancashire for the NatWest T20 Blast campaign.

The 39-year-old will not, however, be playing as an overseas player. He was able to secure a spousal visa through his Danish wife.

Jayawardene is the fourth highest run-scorer in international history and has also held a position as batting coach with England since ending his Sri Lanka career in 2015.

There is no formal coaching element attached to his deal with Lancashire but his experience and role as head coach of Indian Premier League franchise Mumbai Indians, will be a huge source of information and advice for the club’s younger players.