Sri Lanka stretched their lead to just 51 on the final day of the second Test against Australia in Pallekele before rain led to an early lunch.

Rain came to Sri Lanka’s rescue a second time on Monday, with the side tottering at 317 for 6 on the final day of the second test against Australia, just 80 runs ahead. With light fading away in the post-tea session every day, a draw seems the only possible result of this match.

The hosts reached 288 for four as Australia saw their bid to clinch the series with a win held up by the rain.

The new ball proved effective for Australia as seamers Ryan Harris and Trent Copeland took a wicket each.

On a pitch which usually swings early in the day, the tourists had to wait just one over into the final day before they were able to take the new ball.

Kumar Sangakkara failed to improve on his overnight 69 and was dismissed in the fourth over of the day as Australia captain Michael Clarke took a slip catch off Harris.

Mahela Jayawardene was on 51 when he was also caught at slip by Clarke, this time off Copeland.

Thilan Samaraweera (37) and Prasanna Jayawardene (13) were the batsmen charged with keeping Australia at bay.