Sri Lanka Cricket / Editor / 22 June 2007 / Leave a comment

Despite being forced to change their opening batting partnership, Betfair punters still see Sri Lanka as firm favourites to beat Bangladesh in the first Test.

Upul Tharanga is missing through injury and has been replaced in the side by Michael Vandort for the clash in Colombo - which begins on Monday.

Tharanga suffered a hairline fracture in his foot during a net session, after being struck by a delivery from paceman Lasith Malinga.

Captain Mahela Jayawardene admitted that the Sri Lankans are 'hopeful' that the 22-year-old will be available for next month's second Test.
Vandort is a more than adequate replacement though, having played six Tests, and has two centuries to his name.
The left-hander could open with newcomer Malinda Warnapura, who is in line for his debut in the absence of veteran stars Sanath Jayasuriya and Marvan Atapattu.
The home side are the 1.33 favourites to win the opening Test of the three-match series, with Bangladesh trading at 11 and the draw can be backed at 3.