Australia close in on victory against Sri Lanka

HOBART, Australia, Nov 20 (Reuters) Australia were just one wicket away from beating Sri Lanka in the second test today when the tourists collapsed to 391 for nine at lunch on the fifth day at Bellerive Oval.

Sri Lanka started the final day on 247 for three, needing a further 260 runs to reach an unlikely victory target of 507, but lost six wickets in the morning session.

Australia's fast bowlers Brett Lee and Mitchell Johnson triggered the collapse, capturing three wickets between them in the first half hour of play, before the Sri Lankans staged a late fightback to make it through to lunch.

Kumar Sangakkara scored a superb 192 before he was unluckily given out to a catch that came off his shoulder while Lasith Malinga made an unbeaten 32 to ensure Sri Lanka at least made it to lunch.

REUTERS DKS RN0743