Nottinghamshire have signed Sri Lanka left-armer Binura Fernando for the rest of their Blast campaign after Mohammad Ali was called up to Pakistan’s Test squad.

Ali has been in fine form for Notts, taking 19 wickets at 16.21 in his ten appearances – second only to Yorkshire’s Hasan Ali in the competition. He is now due to depart for Pakistan’s tour of the Caribbean, with Fernando heading to Trent Bridge in his place.

“I’m thrilled to be joining Nottinghamshire for the Vitality Blast. It’s a fantastic opportunity to represent such a prestigious club,” he said. “I can’t wait to get out at Trent Bridge, meet the players, supporters, and contribute to the team’s success. I’m looking forward to getting started!”

Fernando, in his first county stint, will be available for Notts’ final two group games – at home to Leicestershire and away to Yorkshire – as well as the knockout stages. Notts are currently top of the North Group and all but certain of a quarter-final spot.

Peter Moores, Nottinghamshire’s head coach, said: “It’s exciting to be able to have Binura joining the squad at the business end of the competition. He has a proven record in white-ball cricket and real international pedigree, his skillset adds genuine variety to the team, and he will complement the rest of our bowling attack.

“It will be a shame to lose Mohammad Ali, who has done really well for us up until now, but we wish him all the best with Pakistan and we’re excited to have Binura join in his place.”