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Malinga returns to tests after 2-year absence

Seamer Lasith Malinga could return to test cricket for the first time in more than two years after being included in the squad to face India on Friday.

However, spinner Ajantha Mendis has been dropped from the 16-member squad announced by Sri Lanka selectors for the three-test series starting July 18.

The 26-year-old Malinga struggled with injuries during 2008 and ‘09, which limited him to appearances in one-day competition. He formed part of the Sri Lanka side that reached the semifinals of the World Twenty20 in May.

Malinga has played 28 times in tests. His last test appearance came in December 2007 against England.

Mendis, who has played in 10 tests, took a world record 26 wickets in a debut three-test series to lead Sri Lanka to victory over India in 2008. The 25-year-old spinner broke a 62-year record of 24 wickets set by England’s Alec Bedser.

The squad led by Kumar Sangakkara has seven specialist batsmen, including 20-year-old Lahiru Thirimanne who is yet to play a test.

Four seam bowlers are included in the side while allrounder Angelo Mathews will also supplement the bowling attack.

Rangana Herath and Suraj Randiv will support star spinner Muttiah Muralitharan, who will retire from test cricket after the first test in Galle.

Sri Lanka squad: Kumar Sangakkara (captain), Muttiah Muralitharan, Tillakaratne Dilshan, Tharanga Paranavitana, Mahela Jayawardene, Thilan Samaraweera, Angelo Mathews, Prasanna Jayawardene, Lasith Malinga, Rangana Herath, Dilhara Fernando, Dammika Prasad, Suraj Randiv, Thilina Kandamby, Chanaka Welegedara, Lahiru Thirimanne.