Sri Lanka ponder Atapattu recall
Thursday, 4 October 2007
Former Sri Lanka captain Marvan Atapattu could be set for a surprise return in the two-match Test series in Australia starting on 8 November, reports BBC
Atapattu, 36, has made 16 Test hundreds but not featured at international level since February and his central contract is unlikely to be renewed next month.
But chief selector Asantha de Mel said: "We need him in Australia. He has the technique and temperament to stay in."
De Mel says Sanath Jayasuriya will only be part of the one-day team.
Atapattu was sidelined by a back injury in 2006, leading to the appointment of Mahela Jayawardene as captain.
Jayawardene quickly secured the position permanently by orchestrating a 5-0 one-day series triumph in England.
Atapattu made the last of his Test centuries against New Zealand in April 2005, while he last reached three figures in one-day internationals back in October 2004.
"I will talk to him about his availability," De Mel added. "His experience will be very important for the two Tests against Australia."
Atapattu, 36, has made 16 Test hundreds but not featured at international level since February and his central contract is unlikely to be renewed next month.
But chief selector Asantha de Mel said: "We need him in Australia. He has the technique and temperament to stay in."
De Mel says Sanath Jayasuriya will only be part of the one-day team.
Atapattu was sidelined by a back injury in 2006, leading to the appointment of Mahela Jayawardene as captain.
Jayawardene quickly secured the position permanently by orchestrating a 5-0 one-day series triumph in England.
Atapattu made the last of his Test centuries against New Zealand in April 2005, while he last reached three figures in one-day internationals back in October 2004.
"I will talk to him about his availability," De Mel added. "His experience will be very important for the two Tests against Australia."