Dhoni out of Sri Lanka Tests

MS Dhoni has decided to rest rather than face Sri Lanka © Getty Images

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Wicketkeeper Mahendra Singh Dhoni has opted out India’s upcoming Test series against Sri Lanka.

India’s one-day captain was unhappy the scheduling of the Asia Cup meant his team had to play back-to-back matches and feels he needs a break as he has been playing non-stop cricket since leading the Chennai Super Kings to the final of the Indian Premier League.

A statement from the Board of Control for Cricket in India said: “We respect his decision to pull out of the Test series. It shows maturity on his part.”

The first of the three Test series begins in Colombo on July 23.

Selectors will meet later today to pick the team for the tour, which will also include five one-day internationals, with Dinesh Karthik expected to replace Dhoni.

Selectors will also shortlist 30 players for the Champions Trophy in Pakistan.