Russel Arnold - Sri Lanka - Batting Allrounder

One of those many multi-utility cricketers to come out of Sri Lanka in the late 90s, Russel Arnold was a middle-order batsman, chipping in with the ball and boasting of a safe pair of hands. As Sri Lanka rose through the ranks in the ODI rankings, Arnold was one of their key components, going about his job, quietly, effectively.

A tall left-handed orthodox batsman, he began as an opener in Tests, when he made his debut against Pakistan in 1997. Battling constant inconsistency in his earlier years, he kept shunting in and out of the side. Coupled with the rise of Marvan Attapatu to partner Sanath Jayasuriya at the top, Arnold was subsequently pushed down the order.

It always seemed tough keeping him out for long - he kept knocking on the door by churning out big runs for Nondescripts in the domestic circuit. It was post 2003 in the role of a finisher, with useful off-breaks when he came into his own. This phase saw him close out several games for Sri Lanka, batting at number five and six. He also developed the ability to bat with the tail - something his record for the highest tenth-wicket partnership in ODIs shows.

Post 2006,with the rise of Dilshan and the selectors turning to youth, it became tough for him to hold on to his spot. The ace came first in Tests, followed by ODIs, but was duly called back for the 2007 World Cup. At the age of 34, he announced his retirement mid-way through the World cup, putting an end to multiple comebacks and a fancied career that comprised of nearly 6000 international runs.

He was quick to hop onto the rebel Indian Cricket League post-retirement in 2008 and soon turned to broadcasting. Currently better known as the man behind the microphone, he's one of the best recognized voices coming out of Sri Lanka.

Written by - Vineet Anantharaman