Mendis misses out

Ajantha Mendis was one of three Sri Lanka spinners in the second Test match

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Spinner Ajantha Mendis has been axed by Sri Lanka for the decisive final Test against India in Mumbai, which starts tomorrow.

Mendis burst on to the scene with 26 wickets in three Tests against India last year but has taken only a further 18 in seven subsequent appearances.

Sri Lanka fielded a three-pronged spin attack last week in the second Test in Kanpur, where they lost by an innings to trail 1-0 in the three-match series.

Requiring a first win on Indian soil to avoid defeat, Sri Lanka are intent on drafting in another paceman at the Brabourne Stadium.

“Mendis will have to sit it out,” captain Kumar Sangakkara confirmed at the pre-match press conference.

Sri Lanka will recall Nuwan Kulasekara or Dilhara Fernando, with the former expected to make the XI.