Harmison dropped for first Test

First Test, Kandy: England v Sri Lanka
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Fast bowler Steve Harmison was omitted from the England team for the first Test against Sri Lanka in Kandy.

James Anderson was preferred as the third seamer, alongside Matthew Hoggard and Ryan Sidebottom.

It is believed to be the first time a fit Harmison has been dropped for a Test match.

England captain Michael Vaughan said it had been a tough decision but added: "James Anderson has been bowling brilliantly and deserves his chance."

Harmison had only just joined up with England after having to prove his fitness playing a couple of domestic games in South Africa.

His form had been under the spotlight after a mixed year in 2007, which started with some unconvincing performances in the disastrous Ashes campaign last winter and ended with him undergoing hernia surgery.

Source: BBC Sport