Billingshurst's long-term overseas Mitipolarachchi denied visa

WH 300614 Cricket. Goring v Billingshurst (batting). D. Mitipolaarachchi Photo by Derek Martin SUS-140630-224830002

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Billingshurst have been dealt a major blow with news that overseas Dhanushka Mitipolarachchi will not be able to join the club this season.

The Sri Lankan all-rounder, who has been at the club for the past four seasons, has had his visa refused.

The 28-year-old right-handed top-order batsman and spin bowler has become a mainstay in the side since coming to the club for the first time in 2012.

Mitipolarachchi said: “It is with great disappointment that I won’t be able to play for Billingshurst for this season as my visa application was rejected.

“I hope this is not the end of my Billingshurst career and hope to get back to the club next year if possible.

“Thanks to all the club for their support and for waiting for me to hear about my visa. I am sorry I can’t be thee this year.”

Billingshurst captain Stuart Barber said: “It’s so frustrating, we tried so hard, but it just did not work out. We are pursuing another option, but it hasn’t been confirmed just yet.

“We challenged the reason they gave, but they came back with another reason and it just seems something they are clamping down on at the moment.