Russel Premakumaran Arnold

Profile:

Russel Arnold, a devout Christian and keen rugby fan, established a regular place in the Sri Lankan team after the 1999 World Cup in England. A hard-working and tenacious left-hander, he started his career as an opener, making his Test debut against Pakistan in 1996/7, but was later dropped down the order in the 5-day game. However, although successful in that position in the one-day game, where his ability to manoeuvre the ball into gaps and quickly adapt to the prevailing match situation proved invaluable, he struggled in the Test arena (he averaged 22.52 in 2000 and 21.50 in 2001) and was dropped during last year's Asian Test Championship. Recalled for series against Zimbabwe and West Indies he gradually grew in confidence before being given a chance as an opener again in the final Test against England last June, an opportunity he grabbed with open arms, scoring 62 and 109. Is also a useful off-spinner and a brilliant all-round fielder.