Harmison given chance to earn Test place
Steve Harmison has been granted his wish, and will play in Sunday’s final warm-up against a Sri Lanka Board President’s XI at the Nondescripts ground in Colombo, with a view to securing his place in next week’s first Test at Kandy. Harmison, whose boots were mislaid en route from South Africa, bowled just six ineffective overs in England’s opening fixture at Colombo Cricket Club earlier this week, but insisted afterwards that he was here to fight for his place. England have listened to his crie de coeur, and taken a punt on his experience.
Harmison’s place in the final reckoning comes at the expense of Stuart Broad, who impressed during England’s one-day series victory in September, but has effectively been ruled out of contention for Kandy after missing the cut for this game. Ryan Sidebottom, who was England’s most effective bowler in the opening match, sits out to allow others – most notably James Anderson – a chance to fight for selection. Barring an unforeseen change of heart from the management, Sidebottom is guaranteed to feature in what will be his first overseas Test.
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Courtesy:ind.cricinfo.com
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