Sri Lanka has taken the initiative on the first morning of day 2. The pitch has settled and Sri Lanka did take advantage – they left it to the last wicket but they made hey for 14 painful overs for the Aussies. Overs that cost 79 runs for the last wicket. There must have been some relief when Murali strode to the wicket with Sri Lanka just 12 in front – he did make a pair last Test and the end should have been near. Murali proceeded to club 43 from 28 balls while Vaas kept the board ticking at the other end. Murali put Warne, Kasper and MacGill over the fence in a defiant display. Final score was 211 with Vaas unbeaten on 68.

Warne finished with 5/65, Kasper 4/83.

The lead is a very healthy 91. This match will have a result, barring rain and Sri Lanka are well placed.

That being said, Australia could be expected, and will need to, make a very large score.

At lunch, Australia is 0/8. Vaas has bowled two maidens to Langer and Murali, who opened at the other has been hit for a couple of rope shots by Hayden.