Cricket: Murali edges one wicket closer

Test cricket's leading wicket taker moved one closer to his goal this morning, but his chances of reaching the 800 mark still look slim.

Muttiah Muralitharan, playing his final match, moved to within seven of his target when he trapped Sachin Tendulkar lbw for 8 on the third day of the first test between Sri Lanka and India at Galle.

But Murali failed to add to that wicket tally, ending the day's play with figures of 1 for 31.

Virender Sehwag led India's reply to Sri Lanka's massive total of 520 for eight declared with a sparkling unbeaten 85.

India reached 140 for three when bad light ended play.

- NZHERALD STAFF