Chandana given the all-clear to tour New Zealand

Sri Lanka received their second injury boost in 48 hours when Upul Chandana was given the all-clear to tour New Zealand. Chandana had been sent to Singapore for medical tests on a respiratory complaint.

Chandana first complained of breathing difficulties during the Pakistan tour in October, prompting concerns over his health. But doctors in Singapore were satisfied that there was no major problem.

Sri Lanka had earlier received good news about Muttiah Muralitharan. Murali could possibly return to international cricket in January after being given the green signal to resume bowling again in the nets at Melbourne.

Dr David Young, Murali's Melbourne-based surgeon, was reported to have been surprised by Murali's rapid recovery from what was a major operation in August - a similar operation that forced Anil Kumble out of the game for a year.

Murali will now gradually increase his workload in the nets during December with an eye on a possible return for the two-match Test series against New Zealand that starts in January.

Sri Lanka's selectors will pick the one-day squad for that tour shortly. It will be their first selection since their controversial axing of Tillakaratne Dilshan against Pakistan that prompted an avalanche of criticism.