Australia moved to within 30 runs of Sri Lanka's first innings lead of 157, when tea was taken on the fourth day of the final test at the SSC, reaching 127 fo 2.

Sri Lanka ended their first innings on 473 earlier today, on the back of Angelo Mathews' maiden test century. He went on to score 105 before Suranga Lakmal was bowled by Mitchell Johnson for 13, bringing them close to the Lankan innings.

Australia then went about chasing down the lead and openers Shane Watson and Philip Hughes put the visitors on track with a 62-run partnership before Rangana Herath had Shane Watson trapped for 21, after reviewing umpire Tony Hill's not out decision.

Shaun Marsh unfortunately fell shortly before tea for 18 when he was caught at short leg off the bowling of Herath, though replays showed the ball ricocheting off his hip into the hands of Thirimanne.

Hughes batted himself into form and was unbeaten on 73 at tea, with Ricky Ponting yet to score. (SMD)