Gayle Out of 3rd Test

West Indies opening batsman Chris Gayle has opted to undergo a corrective medical procedure for an irregular heartbeat in Melbourne, a decision that ruled him out of the third and final Test against Australia.

The surgery was considered minor in nature and team management said it was a success. "Chris is awake and alert and will remain under observation overnight. He will be discharged tomorrow and will remain in Melbourne before leaving Australia."

"Apart from a short period of rest there are no other impediments to Chris? returning to the cricket field in the near future," team spokesman Imran Khan said in a statement.

Gayle was forced to retire hurt while batting in the second Test after he felt an irregular heartbeat.

With Marlon Samuels also out of contention, the West Indies squad will now consist of 13 members since with only one test match remaining, starting on Friday, no replacement will be sought.

The obvious replacement for Gayle at the top of the batting order is Wavell Hinds, while Dwayne Smith will likely be chosen to take Samuels' place in the middle order.