Playing under Dhoni a dream-come-true: Perera

Perera, who was the only Sri Lankan to earn a contract at this year's auction, was bought by the Chennai Super Kings for $ 50,000.

Shot into the limelight with his aggressive batting in recent India-Sri Lanka cricket series, all-rounder Thisara Perera said it was a dream-come-true for him to play under Mahendra Singh Dhoni in Indian Premier League side Chennai Super Kings.

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"It's really a great opportunity for me. To play among the stars in the Indian Premier League which is a big thing for me. I hope to get an opportunity soon," Perera told PTI.

Perera, who was the only Sri Lankan to earn a contract at this year's auction, was bought by the CSK for USD 50,000.

The 20-year-old was all praise for CSK captain Dhoni.

"He is the most patient captain I have ever seen. He is extremely cool-headed on the field that inspires youngsters like me. It's really a dream-come-true that I am in a team which has Dhoni as the captain," he said.

The southpaw had earned surprise national call-up during Sri Lanka's tour of India last year as emergency replacement for Angelo Mathews and he grabbed the opportunity with both the hands.

Boasting an impressive ODI strike-rate of 161.53, Perera said: "I always bat with aggression. I always try to hit the ball hard. My approach suits Twenty20 the most. Hoping a good show here (in IPL), I will be able to establish my career."

His style of play resembles compatriot left-hander Sanath Jayasuriya and an unassuming Perera said: "I have grown up watching him play since the 1996 World Cup triumph. I have had few opportunities to talk to Jayasuriya. He has told me to work hard and I will have a great future ahead."

Perera, however, does not idolise anybody.

"I have my style and ability. I do not like to copy anyone."

"I always enjoy big hitting. I like to bat more than I bowl. But it always helps if I contribute with the ball as well," Perera said.