Murali fit to play last match in Sri Lanka

Muttiah Muralitharan was on Tuesday declared fit to play the World Cup semi-final against New Zealand in what will be his last match on home ground before retirement.

The 38-year-old spinner, who has the most one-day wickets with 532, hurt his hamstring in the group match victory against New Zealand and then suffered a knee problem.

Muralitharan, who will retire after the World Cup, was doubtful for the match but Sri Lanka media manager Brian Thomas confirmed the key spinner will play.

"He is fit and will take the field," said Thomas, raising hopes of a home team win.

Muralitharan said he won't feel any pressure from his last home game.

"Playing your last match in your country is emotional. When I played my last Test and took eight wickets it was very emotional," said Muralitharan of his last Test against India in 2010.

If Sri Lanka win on Tuesday, Muralitharan will play his last international match in the final on April 2 in Mumbai.

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