MUTTIAH Muralitharan's Lancashire debut was wrecked by rain at Bristol.

The first day of the bottom-four championship clash with Gloucester was washed out without a ball bowled, and there was a big threat against today's play after an overnight storm.

It was a typically English scene and Murali said: "I hope I get used to the weather."

Heavy overnight rain had affected the bowlers' run-ups, especially where electric cables had been laid up to the stump mike for a recent World Cup tie.

But that could not take the smile off Murali's face - a smile which coach Dav Whatmore thinks will light up the Lancashire dressing-room.

"He has such infectious enthusiasm for the game," said Whatmore. "And he won't let things like a bit of rain get him down. He wants to get out there and play, like every other cricketer, but is a bright, cheerful character who never has a long face."

Murali said: "The players have made me very welcome and I can't wait to get started. I believe I have the ability to do well, and take lots of wickets. But I am not setting any targets."

Murali was no-balled for throwing last winter during the triangular series in Australia, and his controversial action will be scrutinised by English umpires.

However, if they have a doubt about him, they have been asked to express it in writing to Lord's rather than publicly call him.

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