Clubs are exploring far and wide in pursuit of the perfect import, with players crossing to south-west clubs from South Africa, England and Sri Lanka.

The Standard has profiled each of the seven overseas players plying their trade on south-west turf in 2017-18, analysing their on-field effect on the competition.

(Nestles)

The Yorkshireman has cemented himself in Nestles’ middle-order, showing glimpses of brilliance including a stand-and-deliver six over square leg against Allansford in round one. Yet to card a big score, but Harland gives the impression he could tear a game apart with more time at the crease. Averaging just 12 runs but more time in the middle will be valuable as he navigates the Australian summer.

Coach says: He’s only a young lad but already he’s a leader in our side. He’s made a couple of runs in some games but we know a big score isn’t far away. He just needs to find that breakout score because he’s a very capable batsman and his stats in England show that. – Geoff Williams.

(West Warrnambool)

Panthers coach Alastair Templeton had high hopes for the Englishman prior to his arrival in the south-west, and Sunderland has delivered. Has been as consistent as any in the competition, blasting 163 runs to average 27 after seven games, and has also claimed 15 wickets. Also a talented basketballer who has played at a high-level in the United Kingdom.

Coach says: “We always look to get our overseas players to be as good off the field as they are on the field. That’s just as important to us. He’s just walked straight in and he’s fitting in really well.” – Alastair Templeton.

(East Warrnambool)

Is a very dangerous all-rounder when firing, highlighted by his score of 46 in last season’s Twenty20 grand final. Has returned to the rebuilding club to provide some much-needed firepower to their batting and bowling ranks. Needs to take on a leadership role with the club losing a host of experienced talent. At 29 years of age, has 10 first-class games under his belt with Sri Lanka Air Force Sports Club.

Coach says: “It’s good to have another bat and spin option, and he’s an all-round good bloke. He gets along with others well and looks equally as good bowling as he does batting.” – Jarrod Wilson.

(Russells Creek)

Affectionately dubbed “Rookie”, Weerasinghe had two Sri Lankan first-class centuries and five half-centuries to cap a decorated resume prior to his arrival at Jetty Flat. Has developed into a popular character at the club and has earned initial country week squad selection after solid scores with the bat. Averages just 22, but Creek leaders have high hopes for his talent leading into the latter half of the season.

Coach says: “He’s still getting used to the Australian way and that takes a bit of time – people can’t just rock in and score copious amounts of runs. I think English players find it a bit easier to adapt to Warrnambool because the pitches over there are probably similar – they are a bit slower and give the bowlers a bit to work with. He’s a great batsman and is one of the first to training and the last to go home.” – Cam Williams.

(Port Fairy)

The reigning cricketer of the year needs no introduction as he dominated the competition from start-to-finish last season. Lethal with both bat and ball, Perera is a bona fide talent but is still trying to recapture the top-class form which earned the association’s top individual honour in 2016-17. A friendly yet quiet person, Perera is coming out of his shell.

Coach says: “He’s obviously top quality with the ball and bat but I think everybody just walks that little bit taller with him in the side. It’s his second year with us and he’s really started to come out of his shell, doing a bit of work with the juniors and putting across the stuff he’s learnt at that top level.” – Jordan Graham.

(Merrivale)

South African residing in England for the past five years who has come across as a talented batsman. Is vying for a place with English county side Durham’s second XI and is set to use his time at the Warrnambool and District Cricket Association. Is a politics and history student in the United Kingdom. Desperate to perform for Merrivale and to give back to the club.

Coach says: “Even though he’s only 23, he gives us a bit of experience. He offers stability in the top order if Josh (Stapleton) or I can’t get the job done. We’ve probably lacked that one guy who can hang around and help us along and Ben can do that. He’s got maturity and plenty of quality and just fits in with our group well. He’s an intelligent guy.” – Jeremy Burgess.

(Dennington)

Classy leg-spinner who bolsters the Dennington top-order. Has lived in Melbourne for the past four seasons.

Coach says: “His batting technique is very good and even though he’s a quiet guy, you can tell he’s a really nice bloke.” – Zeb McCarthy.