Australia declare on 450-5

Australia have decided to declare on 450-5 and put Sri Lanka in to bat on a rain-affected second day of the first Test in Hobart.

© AP Photos

Michael Clarke was the only casualty of the morning session as Australia added 65 runs to their overnight total of 199-4 before an early lunch was called.

Play was delayed by more than an hour as the afternoon session got off to a late start due to heavy showers.

Once the match resumed Michael Hussey brought up his century with a disciplined display after Angelo Matthews dropped a strong catching chance.

Matthew Wade provided diligent support, reaching 68 off 135 balls before skipper Clarke decided to bring the innings to an abrupt end in an effort to force a result.

The hosts declared with 450 runs safely on the board after Hussey delivered a huge six to bring up a personal tally of 115 not out.