Muttiah Muralitharan's Controversial Stint As Australia Bowling Consultant Ends

The build-up of the Sri Lanka - Australia series has been dominated by controversy, with Sri Lanka's cricket bosses angry at spin bowling legend Muttiah Muralitharan for helping the Australian cricketers ahead of the three-Test series.

Muralitharan, who is the all-time leading wicket-taker in Tests with 800 wickets in 133 games, was accused by Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) president Thilanga Sumathipala for helping the Australians use a practice pitch in Colombo without permission. The offspinner was also reportedly involved in a bust-up with a former colleague.

Now, in a Sydney Morning Herald report, Cricket Australia have said that the spat over Muralitharan's involvement in the series has been resolved, with his stint as Australian bowling consultant ending prior to the start of the first Test in Pallekele.

Before the start of the series, Muralitharan was appointed as the bowling consultant for the duration of Australia's tour to Sri Lanka, which consists of three Tests, five ODIs and two Twenty20 Internationals.

A CA spokesperson said that discussion took place between Cricket Australia and SLC. "We received an email from SLC and after discussions between the two management teams, we consider the matter to be resolved."

Unacceptable Behavior

In the days leading into the Pallekele Test, Muralitharan was accused of bullying the groundsman in Colombo, with the SLC president accusing  Muralitharan of unacceptable behavior.

"He rode roughshod over the groundsmen and got his (Australian) players to practice in violation of the time stipulations. He later confronted our team manager (Senanayake) and abused him," Sumathipala said. He further added, "Professionally, it is okay for Murali to coach any foreign team, but the irony is that he is supporting Australia which tried to get him out of cricket."

Sri Lanka's cricket had lodged a complaint with the Australian team over Muralitharan's actions

'I Am Not a Traitor'

On his part, Muralitharan had insisted that he was only doing a professional job.

"I am not a traitor. Sri Lanka has not tried to make use of my services, so I am helping the Australians who value my contributions," the legendary spinner said.

Muralitharan has found support from former Sri Lanka batsman Kumar Sangakkara, who tweeted about the situation on his Twitter handle

SLC had ever asked him to coach Sri Lanka he always will. His consultancy with anyone is a way he can give back to the game. He has given -

- Kumar Sangakkara (@KumarSanga2) July 25, 2016

His best to his country on the field and off. He is always available for his country all they have to do is ask. We shud b proud of him

- Kumar Sangakkara (@KumarSanga2) July 25, 2016