Karthik heads for Mumbai

Left-arm spinner Murali Karthik, who was in the Indian squad for the third Test against Sri Lanka, has been released to play domestic cricket.

Karthik will play for Railways in the Ranji Trophy match against Mumbai, starting at the Wankhede stadium on Saturday.

The decision was taken by the selectors, in consultation with the coach and captain, and it was decided that it would be better to give Karthik some much-needed match practice rather than having him warm the bench.

It seems a good decison considering that it was unlikely that India would opt for three spinners in the third Test.

Kumble, Tendulkar to be felicitated

Newly-elected BCCI president and Union Agriculture minister Sharad Pawar will felicitate Anil Kumble, who will play his 100th Test, in the final Test against Sri Lanka at the Motera stadium, in Ahmedabad, on Sunday.

Kumble proved to be Sri Lanka's nemesis in New Delhi, claiming a 10-wicket haul in the second Test to lead India to a crushing victory.

His current Test record stands at 478 wickets in 99 Tests, at an bowling average of 28.02.

Sachin Tendulkar, who registered his record 35th Test century in the second Test at New Delhi, will also be felicitated by the BCCI chief.

Kumble and Tendulkar will also be felicitated by the Gujarat Cricket Association.

VRV Singh in the nets

Punjab fast bowler VRV Singh, who is recovering from an ankle injury has made a lot of progress, according to team manager Baladitya.

"He is undergoing rehabilitation and has made a lot of progress," said team manager M Baladitya.

Singh, who has been training with the Indian team in Ahmedabad, bowled in the nets on Friday.

"He has been advised not to bowl all out. He has been asked to bowl at 60% and gradually build it up from there," Baladitya said.

"He is being closely monitored by physio John Gloster and trainer Gregory King. According to Gloster he has made a lot of progress, but is still not match fit."