Pakistan's Rana leaves Sri Lanka tour

COLOMBO, Mar 27 (Reuters) Pakistan fast bowler Rana Naved-ul-Hasan has pulled out of the first test against Sri Lanka and has flown home to be with his sick wife.

Naved-ul-Hasan, who was expected to lead a three-pronged pace attack against Sri Lanka, was able to leave after the first day's play yesterday was washed out before the toss and the naming of teams.

''He was put on the first flight that was available as he was desperate to return to be with his family after hearing about his wife's poor health,'' team manager Zaheer Abbas told reporters.

It is unclear whether he will return in time for the second test in Kandy, which starts on April 3.

Reuters 1057