Ton-up Mendis leads Sri Lanka fightback against Australia

Kusal Mendis struck a superb maiden century Thursday as Sri Lanka fought their way back into contention in the first Test against Australia, opening up a lead of 167 runs at tea on the third day in Pallekele. Playing in his seventh Test, Mendis was unbeaten at the break on 157 after substantial partnerships with Dinesh Chandimal and then Dhananjaya de Silva as Sri Lanka reached 253 for five in their second innings. While the first two days of a rain-affected match were dominated by the bowlers,