Tri-series: Laxman out, Badani in

MUMBAI, SEPT. 17. Venkatsai Laxman has pulled out of the tri- nation tourney in South Africa. He will be replaced by Tamil Nadu lefthander Hemang Badani in the 15-member team for the tri-series involving India, South Africa and Kenya.

Laxman, who is in Sydney, told coach John Wright (now in New Zealand) that he is not likely to be fit for the tri- series and has therefore decided to withdraw from the first part of the tour. ``I came to know about Laxman's decision from Wright,'' said Mr. Lele, Hony. Secretary, BCCI.

Laxman, a stylish middle-order batsman from Hyderabad, did not play in the Test series in Sri Lanka and underwent a cartilage- related surgery in his right knee in Sydney on August 17. First, he informed the BCCI that he will be fit to play from September- end.

On the basis of this information, the National selectors picked him in the initial squad of 15. Laxman, according to Mr. Lele, was to arrive in India on Monday (Sept. 17). But he changed his travel plans and told Mr. Lele he would return home on Thursday (Sept. 20) and report for the physical fitness test in Mumbai on Sept. 22.

With less than 10 days remaining for the team's departure to South Africa, Laxman has realised that it would be an embarrassment for himself and the BCCI if he appeared for the physical fitness test and failed it. His replacement, Badani, has been told by the BCCI to report in Mumbai on Sept. 22.

- Our Special Correspondent

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