Muralitharan’s final Test marred by rain

GALLE: Sri Lankan spinner Muttiah Muralitharan’s bid to become the first bowler to reach 800 Test wickets was dealt a severe blow as rain washed out the entire second day’s play of the first Test against India. The world bowling record holder, who announced that it would be his final Test appearance, needs eight wickets in the match to reach the 800-mark. But with three days to go and rain being forecast on the remaining days as well, the possibility seems bleak.

The morning start had already been delayed by a wet outfield at the Galle International Stadium when a thunderstorm soon after ensured there would be no play before lunch.

The umpires scheduled an inspection as the skies cleared briefly, but another spell of heavy rain in the afternoon wiped out any hope of play.

The first day also saw 22 overs being lost due to rain in which Sri Lanka, electing to bat, made 256 for two with Tharanga Paranavitana on 110 and Mahela Jayawardene on eight at the crease. Sri Lankan captain Kumar Sangakkara also chipped in with a century as the hosts dominated the opening day before rain spoiled their fun.

Meanwhile, India, the top-ranked Test side, are looking for their first series win in Sri Lanka in 17 years.

Published in The Express Tribune, July 20^th, 2010.