England drop Morgan from Sri Lanka squad

England dropped Eoin Morgan from their Test squad for the tour of Sri Lanka following the former Ireland batsman's dismal series against Pakistan in the United Arab Emirates.

Middlesex left-hander Morgan averaged just 13.66 against Pakistan as England were whitewashed 3-0 in their first series since climbing to the top of the world Test rankings.

His omission has given a chance to spin bowling all-rounder Samit Patel, uncapped at Test level, who will compete alongside Ravi Bopara, a batsman and seam bowler, for a place in England's middle order.

England will play the first of two Tests against Sri Lanka at Galle starting March 26.