South Africa opt to bat in first test v Sri Lanka

COLOMBO, July 27 (Reuters) South Africa won the toss and opted to bat first against Sri Lanka in the first test of a two-match series today.

The tourists opted to play five bowlers, including all rounder Andrew Hall in place of opening batsman Boeta Dippenaar.

Sri Lanka left out leg-spinner Malinga Bandara in favour of seamer Farveez Maharoof.

The hosts also relieved Kumar Sangakkara of his normal wicket-keeping duties, handing the gloves to Prasanna Jayawardene.

Sri Lanka: Mahela Jayawardene (Capt), Kumar Sangakkara, Muttiah Muralitharan, Sanath Jayasuriya, Upul Tharanga, Tillakaratne Dilshan, Chamara Kapugedera, Farveez Maharoof, Lasith Malinga, Dilhara Fernando, Prasanna Jayawardene South Africa: Ashwell Prince (capt), Andrew Hall, Hashim Amla, Nicky Boje, Mark Boucher, AB de Villiers, Herschelle Gibbs, Andre Nel, Makhaya Ntini, Jacques Rudolph, Dale Steyn.

REUTERS PM VV1100