Australia close in on victory

Australia look on course to secure a 3-0 series win over Sri Lanka after the tourists ended day three of the third Test match with a lead of 87 runs with just three wickets remaining.

Australia declared just before the conclusion of the morning session on 432-9 after Mitchell Wade finished unbeaten on 102 to secure his second Test match century.

Sri Lanka produced a strong response as they looked to avoid an innings defeat, and they avoided that possibility as Dimuth Karunaratne and Mahela Jayawardene led their side to 130-1 at tea.

However, Australia turned up the pressure in the final session of the day, and a superb collective bowling spell reduced Sri Lanka to 178-6.

Dinesh Chandimal made a resilient 22 to take Sri Lanka to 225-7 at the close of play, but Australia will be favourites to wrap up victory on day four.