Umesh Kurera

Umesh Lakshan is a talented right-hand top-order batter and off-spinner who built his reputation through dominant performances in Sri Lankan university cricket, winning back-to-back university championships and posting a double century along the way. That form earned him a move into first-class cricket with Negombo Cricket Club, where he has played alongside Sri Lankan internationals such as Milinda Siriwardana and Nishan Peiris, posting high scores of 74 in first-class cricket and 78 not out in List A cricket. He comes strongly recommended by both Peiris and former Sri Lanka captain Dasun Shanaka, further evidence of the regard in which he is held. Beyond his batting, Umesh is a capable off-spinner, can keep wicket, and is also a qualified strength and conditioning coach, giving him plenty to offer as an all-round package.

Umesh made his first move overseas in 2026, signing for Swinton Moorside Cricket Club in the Greater Manchester Premier League, and it proved an outstanding debut season in English club cricket. He scored 1,176 runs at an average of 53.45, including a century on debut and three hundreds in total, along with six half-centuries and a highest score of 145 not out. He was just as impressive with the ball, taking 45 wickets at an average of 15.24, with four five-wicket hauls and best figures of 6 for 57.

On the back of that outstanding all-round season, Swinton Moorside have moved to secure his services for a second year, and Umesh has re-signed with the club for the 2027 season.