FURNESS CC have brought in a Test-class all-rounder to boost their defence of the North Lancs title next season, writes LEE BENN.

The Oxford Street club have announced the signing of Sri Lankan Kosala Kulasekara for 2016, following the departure of South African Calvin Savage.

Furness have tracked Kulasekara for a number of seasons, but have hitherto been unable to push forward with a deal due to the possibility of international commitments.

Once it became apparent the player would be available next summer, the club were quick to capture the signature of a player with a wealth of international and First Class experience.

Experienced Furness pacemen Peter Lawson believes Kulasekara’s experience makes him a great fit for the club as they seek to extend their recent dominance in the league by taking a seventh title in eight seasons next year.

“We wanted a more experienced player to maintain the high standards we’ve set at the club over the last few years,” he said.

Following the departure of Savage, who helped guide Furness to the North Lancs Premier Division title this season, the club hope Kulasekara can step in to help defend their crown.

The Sri Lankan has played at a number of levels, including appearing in four one-day internationals for his country and a Test match against Pakistan in 2011.

Kulasekara’s experience will count all the more as Furness enter next season without the steady hand of long-serving captain Mike Gadsden, who stepped down this summer.

With his ECB level two coaching qualification, and vast experience within the sport, Kulasekara will provide a wealth of information to whoever fills Gadsden’s shoes next year.

“We need an established player now that Mike has stepped down – Kulasekara was an easy choice to make,” Lawson added.

Furness will vote in Gadsden’s successor at their annual general meeting, and Kulasekara will play a big role as a senior player.

Lawson hopes he will play a big role “both on and off the field in nurturing the young talent we already have at this club.”