A crucial century from Kumar Sangakkara has handed Sri Lanka a vital first-innings lead on day two of the second Test against New Zealand at Wellington.
The tourists started the afternoon session on 159-5, with Sangakkara unbeaten on 66 and Dinesh Chandimal also at the crease, unbeaten on 45.
Chandimal quickly scored his half-century off 99 deliveries as he reached the milestone for the sixth time in his career.
The duo continued their significant stand by fending off testing bowling from seamers Trent Boult and Tim Southee to reach their 100 partnership for the sixth wicket off 288 balls.
They soon passed the 200-run mark, but Chandimal was to fall for 67 as he was caught behind by BJ Watling off the bowling of Jimmy Neesham.
Sangakkara maintained his composure as he notched an impressive 38th Test century off 191 balls to power his team past the Kiwis' first-innings total of 221.
Dhammika Prasad added 11 runs in a partnership of 34 with Sangakkara, although he was to become Neesham's second victim of the innings when he edged behind to Watling.
Sangakkara took the attack to the Black Caps to build his side's lead as he reached 139 not out when tea was called, with his side ahead by 59 runs with three wickets left in their first innings.
Simon Sinclair
