After the IPL, comes the Ranji Trophy. Foreign presence in Indian domestic cricket added another chapter when Sri Lankan pacer Dilhara Fernando became the first foreign signing after the BCCI set new guidelines vis-a-via participation of foreign players. Fernando will play for Baroda in the coming season.

"I enjoyed tremendously during the IPL (he played for the Mumbai Indians). Playing alongside Sachin (Tendulkar) and others was a learning experience. I want to learn something about the game at every stage of my career. So when Baroda Cricket Association (BCA) called me up, I immediately said yes as it would open up new avenues for me," Fernando told The Indian Express from England, where he is currently playing for Worcestershire.

The Lankan pacer's participation, though, will depend on his availability. "I will have to see that it doesn't clash with our domestic cricket and my national obligation. So I told BCA that I will play as and when I am available," said the 29-year-old pacer.

Fernando is expected to share the new ball with Munaf Patel, another outstation import of Baroda. "He is a very good bowler. During the ODIs recently, he was very accurate. I think we would complement each other. I am looking forward to learn from him, and share knowledge and tactics with him."

BCA secretary Samarjeet Gaekwad confirmed the signing. "Yes we have sent Dilhara's name to the BCCI. He has given us consent but the nitty gritties of the contract are yet to be decided,” he said. Monday was the last date to send names of imports to BCCI.