Khawaja, Green put Australia ahead in Galle test

COLOMBO : Cameron Green forged two half-century partnerships as Australia eclipsed Sri Lanka's first-innings total of 212 on day two of the opening test in Galle on Thursday.

The tourists were 233-5 at the tea break after rain and strong wind had wiped out the morning session's play at the Galle International Stadium.

Green was batting on 48 with Alex Carey on a run-a-ball 43 at the other end.

They milked 76 runs off 78 balls in their unbroken sixth-wicket partnership to put Australia in a commanding position in what promises to be a low-scoring contest on a turning track.

Australia, resuming in 98-3, lost Travis Head early but Green's 57-run partnership with Usman Khawaja frustrated Sri Lanka.

Khawaja fell for 71 giving debutant Jeffrey Vandersay his first test wicket but Green has looked confident.

Carey hit six boundaries in his cheeky knock, frequently using the sweep shot to counter the spinners.