A controversial player agent, well-known for his nefarious activities over the years, has attempted to con three members of the 1996 World Cup winning team, ‘The Island’ learns.

The player agent, who enjoys the support of certain members of the current cricket team, but has been badly exposed in recent months, has attempted to play out as much as US$, 30,000 a source told ‘The Island’.

Former captain Sanath Jayasuriya, his opening partner Rumesh Kaluwitharana and former fast bowler Chaminda Vaas were the trio who were affected by the notorious player agent’s underhand dealing.

The agent had informed the players that he could get US$ 5000 for each of them to participate in a six-a-side cricket tournament in Kenya, but upon inquiries, the players had found out that the organizers were willing to pay as much as US$ 15,000 each.

Having realized that they have been taken for a ride, the players had attempted to negotiate with a contact in Colombo who was close to the sponsors, but the agent in turn had queried from the sponsors as to why they wanted to spend as much as US$ 15,000 per player, when he could hire the services of Sri Lankan cricketers for a much lower rate.

The players, some of whom had been at the receiving end due to the activities of this agent over the years, were furious over his conduct and have vowed to confront him, ‘The Island’ learns.

Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) took a bold step two months ago, when they announced that they will derecognize agents and only deal directly with contracted players. A number of senior Sri Lankan cricketers were quick to come to the rescue of the agent in question, by defending his actions.

Source: The Island (Sri Lanka)