Arafat was an integral part of Sussex's one-day success in 2009

Sussex will be without Yasir Arafat for two months after he was named in the Pakistan ICC World Twenty20 squad.

The fast bowler will now miss the majority of Sussex's games throughout April and May.

Coach Mark Robinson told BBC Sussex: "We were told by the Pakistan captain he would be available all season.

"It's a bit of a blow. Finding overseas players with all the rules regulations and the international calendar is difficult but that's the modern game."

But Sussex have been bolstered by the signing of Sri Lanka international batsman Tillakaratne Dilshan, who will play Twenty20 cricket for the county this season.

"We're excited about the signing. He's going to cover for Dwayne Smith for the initial part of the Twenty20 and obviously it's a big singing and a big name coming in," Robinson added.

"He's one of the best players in the world in 50 overs or Twenty20.

"He's got an outstanding record but no player comes with a guarantee but we'll expect some good entertainment."

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