ESP - Trias cut from Spanish squad

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CADIZ (FIBA World Championship) - Spain coach Pepu Hernandez is closer to finalising his squad for the FIBA World Championship after axing Barcelona centre Jordi Trias.

The move leaves Marc Gasol battling with Eduardo Hernandez Sonseca for the 12th and final place in the party to travel to Japan.

"Marc and Eduardo will train with us prior to the game against China," said Hernandez.

"After that game, I will probably take a final decision regarding which player will travel to Japan."

Spain play their first friendly on July 26 in Cordoba against China.

The 25-year-old Trias was disappointed but said: "I was here as a guest and I then saw the possibility to earn a place for Japan.

"I tried, and I am really happy with my team-mates and the work I have done. I am happy for Edu and Marc and I leave the national team with a smile."

Gasol, the 21-year-old brother of Spanish basketball icon and NBA All Star Pau Gasol, received his surprise call-up after Fran Vazquez withdrew through injury.

It marks the first time the Gasol brothers have taken part in the same national team work-outs and the two have never played alongside each other for Spain. Marc, though, will hope to overcome an ankle injury before the tournament.

Spain will be in Group B at the FIBA World Championship with Germany, Panama, New Zealand, Angola and hosts Japan.

Cindy Garcia-Bennett
PA Sport, Exclusively for FIBA.com