Australia in box seat
Australia is poised to win the first cricket Test against Sri Lanka inside three days after setting the tourists 312 to win the match at Marrara Oval.
In total 30 wickets have fallen on the first two days on a pitch which has consistently favoured the bowlers.
Stumps were drawn on day two when Australia was all out for 201 in the last over of the day.
After bowling out Sri Lanka for 97, the home side has an overall lead of 311.
Pace bowler Glenn McGrath said that should be more than enough runs to ensure Australia extends its winning streak over Sri Lanka.
Australia is looking for its fourth consecutive win over Sri Lanka after a 3-0 series win in Sri Lanka three months ago.
In each of those Tests, Sri Lanka came up short in the run chase.
Despite having three whole days to make the runs, McGrath said conditions would continue to suit the bowlers.
"I don't think the pitch will change that much overnight and there'll still be something in it with the new ball and it will be hard for the batsmen.
"For Sri Lanka to win this match they have to bat very well."
Post a comment about this article
Please sign in to leave a comment.
Becoming a member is free and easy, sign up here.