Sri Lanka wicketkeeper Kusal Perera sent home from New Zealand tour after failing doping test

Sri Lanka wicketkeeper Kusal Perera has tested positive for a banned substance and been sent home from the tour of New Zealand. Perera, 25, was randomly tested during the tour of Pakistan, Sri Lanka Cricket have confirmed.

"In view of this and in terms of the applicable ICC regulations, SLC has recalled Perera from New Zealand," a statement said. The SLC added it would "make every endeavour" to ensure Perera can resume his career "at the earliest opportunity in compliance with the ICC regulations".

Perera featured in five one-day internationals and two Twenty20 matches during the tour. He will be replaced by Kaushal Silva.

Perera becomes the second Sri Lankan to fail a drugs test. Batsman Upul Tharanga tested positive for a banned substance during the 2011 World Cup and was suspended for three months. Tharanga said: "I hope my fellow sportsmen will learn from my experience and be more vigilant when taking medical treatment."