SL vs Aus, 2nd Test | Smith, Labuschagne hundreds power Australia to 298/5

Smith, who hit his first century after a gap of 16 innings, was still batting on 109 not out at stumps on Day 1

Steve Smith ended his century drought and Marnus Labuschagne struck his first Test hundred abroad to steer Australia to 298 for the loss of five wickets on day one of the second test against Sri Lanka in Galle on Friday.

Prabath Jayasuriya, one of the three debutants fielded after five COVID-19 cases in the Sri Lanka camp, claimed three wickets either side of the tea break but Australia appeared on course for a massive first innings total.

Smith was batting on 109 not out at stumps, his first century after a gap of 16 innings, which included 14 fours.

Alex Carey was batting on 16 at the other end with Australia pressing for a 2-0 series sweep.

Earlier electing to bat, Australia lost David Warner (five) cheaply after the opener had his off-stump pegged back by an angling Kasun Rajitha delivery.

Usman Khawaja combined with Labuschagne in a 55-run stand to help Australia overcome the early loss.

Ramesh Mendis bowled Khawaja for 37 but suffered agony when he lured Labuschagne, then on 28, out of the crease but wicketkeeper Niroshan Dickwella could not collect the ball and effect a stumping.