September 18
Lara may miss India tour

COLOMBO: Brian Lara's participation in next month's West Indies tour of India may be in doubt after he was admitted to a Colombo hospital on Tuesday with suspected hepatitis. Lara was hospitalised for a series of tests, expected to last at least 24 hours, after making 111 against Kenya in the Champions Trophy on Tuesday.

In an statement released during the match, West Indies team manager Ricky Skerritt said Lara had felt below par for a couple of days but was clearly much worse after his innings. "Brian had discoloured eyes, they were yellowy-orange, there was weakness and he was de-hydrated," Skerritt said on Tuesday.

"He's gone to hospital for a series of tests including blood tests and they have started already. We should know more at some stage on Wednesday." If the tests confirm Lara has hepatitis, it is likely to rule him out of the tour starting on October 4, which includes three tests and seven one-day internationals.

Lara appeared in discomfort during his innings, which lacked his customary fluency. At various times was seen lying on his back during breaks in play, as well as crouching with his hands on his knees. After he was dismissed, a doctor was called to examine him and the decision was taken to admit him to hospital. Hepatitis is an illness that primarily affects the liver. It has various forms, is potentially serious and symptoms include a general lethargy.