Lasith Malinga out of Twenty20 series with Australia

A back injury has forced Lasith Malinga to miss Sri Lanka's upcoming Twenty20 series against Australia.

The fast bowler was left out of the squad which was announced yesterday, but could make a return in time for the one-day series between the two nations.

"We are monitoring his progress carefully," said chairman of selectors Duleep Mendis.

"And if he is fit we will consider him for the one-day international series."

The T20 matches are due to be played on Saturday, August 6 and Monday, August 8. The one-day series gets under way on Wednesday, August 10.