Randiv replaces Mathews for WC final

Mumbai: Spinner Suraj Randiv was on Friday named as Angelo Mathews' replacement ahead of the World Cup 2011 final against India after the all-rounder failed to recover from an injury he had sustained while fielding against New Zealand in the semifinal.

The Sri Lankan team management had, in fact, factored this in and called up Randiv and Chaminda Vaas as possible replacements. They will now keep their fingers crossed and hope that they don't miss Muttiah Muralitharan, who has struggled with niggles throughout the tournament.

The offie played in the semi-final in Colombo despite not being in the best physical condition. The final,if he plays in it, will be his last international game as he had announced his retirement after the World Cup.

The Sri Lankan team management had, in fact, factored this in and called up Randiv and Chaminda Vaas.

A decision on Murali's fitness will be decided on Saturday. In case he cannot play, he will in all probability be replaced by Vaas who last played an international game in July 2009, and hasn't featured in an ODI since August 2008.

For Randiv too, this is an unexpected opportunity after he initially missed out a place in the squad of 15 to Rangana Herath and Ajantha Mendis.

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