Dilhara Fernando to make comeback

Dilhara Fernando has been named in the 14-man Sri Lanka Cricket President's XI squad for the warm-up match against the Australians next week. Fernando gets a chance to prove his fitness ahead of the first Test in Galle.

Fernando's career has been plagued by injuries and this time he's returning after recovering from a stress fracture in his back, the second time in a year. Fernando regained his place in the team for the third Test against England but broke down weeks later in the Provincial tournament.

The President's XI, which will be led by Russel Arnold, also includes Rangana Herath, the left-arm spinner, and legspinner Kaushal Lokuarachchi. Both bowlers are in contention for a place in the Test squad.

The three-day practice match will also mark Shane Warne's return to the Australian side. It will be played from March 2 at the Colombo Cricket Club. The first Test starts on March 8 in Galle.

Sri Lanka Cricket President's XI Squad
1 Russel Arnold (capt), 2 Avishka Gunawardana, 3 Saman Jayantha, 4 Sajith Fernando, 5 Thilan Samaraweera, 6 Lanka de Silva (wk), 7 Gayan Wijekoon, 8 Kaushal Lokuarachchi, 9 Rangana Herath, 10 Dilhara Fernando, 11 Ruchira Perera, 12 Omesh Wijesiriwardene, 13 Dhammika Sudarshana, 14 Muthumudalige Pushpakumara.