Jayasuriya played in the recent World Twenty20 in the West Indies

Worcestershire have agreed to sign Sri Lanka's opener Sanath Jayasuriya for the second part of this summer's Friends Provident T20 campaign.

The exciting Jayasuriya would replace Steve Smith after five matches, who is joining up with the Australia squad.

Director of cricket Steve Rhodes said: "He's a proven match-winner and will be a great entertainer."

The 40-year-old's move is subject to him getting a visa and clearance from the Sri Lankan Cricket Board.

Jayasuriya has played in a world record 444 one-day internationals, as well as 110 Tests and 30 Twenty20 internationals during his career with Sri Lanka - while he was also recently elected as a member of his country's parliament.

"Sanath will bring a wealth of experience to the squad during a critical part of the forthcoming FP T20 campaign," added Rhodes.

There is no doubt he is still one of the most exciting cricketers in world cricket Steve Rhodes

"He has played around the world including the Indian Premier League and World Twenty20.

"His left-arm spin and powerful batting can only benefit our efforts in this competition.

"There is no doubt he is still one of the most exciting cricketers in world cricket."

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